Long inspires Hull on his return to Saints

SEAN LONG grabbed a debut try to inspire Hull to a stunning 32-12 victory on his return to St Helens.

The 33-year-old turned down a 12-month contract at Saints to sign a two-year deal with Hull and made his mark after 26 minutes when Willie Manu powered through Paul Wellens' tackle from his captain's pass and Danny Tickle booted the goal.

Worse followed for Saints when sub Epalahame Lauaki forced his way past Leon Pryce, with Tickle's conversion making it 12-0 at half-time.

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Tickle's penalty, when Ewan Dowes was held down, then stretched the lead to 14-0.

Long's moment of glory came after Tickle, Jordan Tansey and Richard Horne combined for their new captain to sweep over for a fantastic try.Tickle converted to make it 20-0.

Tom Briscoe's breakaway try extended the lead with CraigFitzgibbon tagging on the conversion.

Video referee Steve Ganson awarded Matt Gidley a consolation try for Saints with Kyle Eastmond adding the touchline goal.

Chris Flannery bagged a second Saints try 10 minutes from time but Hull had the final say with Kirk Yeaman latching onto Long's kick.

Read full report and reaction in Monday's Yorkshire Post