St Helens and Hull FC make squad changes after bad defeats

St Helens and Hull FC have named their initial squads for their Round five matchup at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday, live on Sky Sports.

Paul Wellens’ side suffered a 20-12 defeat at the hands of newly promoted Leigh Leopards last time out. It was the second loss of the season for Saints after a home defeat to Leeds Rhinos the week prior.

There is one change to the World Champions’ squad. Australian second-rower Curtis Sironen returns to the side after completing his one-match suspension for a late hit in the defeat to Leeds.

He replaces youngster Lewis Baxter. Sione Mata’utia and Konrad Hurrell are still unavailable due to suspension.

Hull FC were heavily defeated by Salford Red Devils last weekend. Tony Smith makes just one change however, with youth replacing experience.

Jamie Shaul comes out of the side, making way for Harvey Barron. Smith has said that Shaul will feature in Hull’s reserve game against Bradford on Saturday.

Carlos Tuimavave, Liam Sutcliffe, and Jake Trueman remain unavailable through injury, while Mitieli Vulikijapani is unavailable after being called up by the British Army Rugby Union side.

Hull FC fans will be praying for a better result than when the two sides last met. A Tommy Makinson and Konrad Hurrell brace helped Saints achieve a 60-6 victory.

Both sides have new coaches for 2023 but despite a fresh outlook, there is pressure on both teams heading into this one after back-to-back defeats.

📋 Tony Smith has named his 21-man squad for Friday's Betfred Super League Round 5 clash against @Saints1890 at the Totally Wicked Stadium…

🤝 Brought to you in association with @JadanPress.

Squad News 👇

— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) March 15, 2023

⚪ 𝗦𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗗 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 🔴

Paul Wellens has named his 21-man squad for this Friday's home @SuperLeague game against @hullfcofficial

Full story 👇#COYS | #HistoryInTheMaking

— St.Helens R.F.C. (@Saints1890) March 15, 2023