Negative publicity driving Hull to be better, says Last

Hull FC Interim head coach Andy Last admits his side need to show professionalism and pride when they take on Huddersfield this Sunday.

The Black and Whites were hammered 54-18 by Salford in their only outing since the competition resumed, a performance that brought about heavy criticism.

It was the start of a tough period for the club as they reported several positive Covid-19 tests following the game, resulting in the postponement of their last two games.

Having recently returned to training after serving 14 days in isolation, Last is well aware of the challenges his team face with the potential of four games in 15 days.

“We have a very tough period coming up. It is a challenge but they make you grow,” Last told the media in his pre-match press conference.

“The players have to rise to it. The full depth of our squad will be tested. The quality of the opposition who we are playing against are all good sides.

“What we need to do is to get ourselves ready. Mentally, the lads need to face them head on. It is the same for everyone else and we will just have to get on with it.

“We have had some negative publicity thrown at us. I would like to think that the players’ mentality will see them come out with fire in their bellies.

“I would like to hope that the players are really hurting from their last performance, which was unacceptable.

“We did not play anywhere near the level expected of us. The players have been made aware of that and hopefully, professional and personal pride will help us get up for the match on Sunday.”