St Helens went top of Super League but head coach Paul Rowley was full of praise for opponents Hull FC after what he labeled a ‘gritty’ win.
It was an emotional evening at the MKM Stadium in the first match after the news of John Cartwright’s impending exit and that meant the Old Faithful were in good voice to encourage the home side.
For a while that worked with Paul Rowley specifically highlighting Hull FC’s first half physicality, however, St Helens eventually got on top as they won 24-14 to go top of Super League.
Speaking post-match on Sky Sports, Rowley reflected on what a physical encounter it had been: “I think the boys are ready for a rest, so we’ll have a good weekend off.
“It was a tough game, that. I said at half-time, the physicality, I thought Hull were great in the first half in particular, but our boys found a way.
“They upped that. I thought our bench were really good. Young lads there in George (Delaney) and Noah (Stephens), some of the old boys as well. Al (Walmsley) came on and did a great job, and (Daryl) Clark is man of the match. It was just a really good, gritty performance from our boys.”
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St Helens boss hails club culture
Asked more about his use of the word ‘gritty’ and the fact it’s a term he’s used to characterise a number of St Helens’ performances this year, Rowley underlined it’s significance given how many players the Red Vee have been without.
“I think that phrase is right and it’s not a given that when we get bodies back that it’s going to be easier,” he explained.
“This is a benchmark that we want to keep growing and getting better, but it certainly should give us, quite rightly, some confidence going forward that when we do get bodies back and we are a little bit healthier.
“It’s going to take hard work. Nothing’s taken for granted, but that’s the culture of the club.”
On what was so tough about the game, he again showered the hosts in praise, answering: “Just Hull’s intent, I think. Like I said to you at half-time, the physicality of them with the carry and with the defence as well on both sides of the ball, in particular that first half.
“We were unable or to or from our point of view not working hard enough to get them into a grind where we thought we’d prosper in that respect and they really, like I said, they really took it to us and credit to them.”
St Helens go TOP after victory against Hull FC! 📈 pic.twitter.com/mViXjX91Rg
— Sky Sports Rugby League (@SkySportsRL) April 16, 2026
