The Tony Smith era with Hull FC got off to a winning start although the result didn’t come as easy as first expected, a huge first half lead being cut to just a two point victory in the end.
Nevertheless Smith will have been happy to get off to a winning start although questions will have been asked surrounding the final 20 minutes in which Castleford were allowed back into the match.
Their opponents on Friday night, Leeds Rhinos, weren’t allowed the opportunity to get back into their opening round match, with Warrington stamping their authority and extending to a 42-10 victory, following a 30-0 lead at halftime.
Kick-off time and TV channel
The game kicks off at 20:00 at Headingley tonight.
TV coverage starts at 19:30 on Sky Sports Arena.
Team News
Tony Smith will take a strong side to Headingley to face his nephew Rohan, making just one changed from the opening round winning squad.
Youngster Harvey Barron is brought in to replace the injured Ligi Sao who is recovering from a dead leg.
đź“‹ Tony Smith has named his 21-man squad for Friday's Betfred Super League Round 2 clash against Leeds Rhinos.
🤝 Brought to you in association with @JadanPress.
Squad News 👇
— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) February 22, 2023
Captain Carlos Tuimavave still remains out as he also recovers from injury, as do the likes of Jake Trueman, Connor Wynne, Miteli Vulikijapani and Jamie Shaul.
That still leaves Smith with a strong side, one that includes former Rhinos Liam Sutcliffe and Brad Dywer who will return to their old stomping ground after impressing on debut.
They’ll line up against a Leeds side that has finally got Sutcliffe’s replacement ready for action, with the Papua New Guinea star centre Nene Macdonald being named among Rohan Smith’s 21-man squad.
James McDonnell was named in the 21-man squad but he and Liam Tindall are set to play for Bradford Bulls this weekend on dual registration.
Leon Ruan could also make his debut if he is named in the side.
Nene Macdonald has been named in Rohan Smith's Leeds Rhinos squad to face Hull FC at Headingley this Friday, kick off 8pm, and the PNG international could make his debut for the club
More ➡ https://t.co/AEVjHujrtH pic.twitter.com/MxCwFoyztt— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) February 22, 2023
