Hull FC boss 'excited' by how Jamie Shaul can utilise rule change

HULL FC caretaker coach Andy Last believes Jamie Shaul could recapture his career-best form on the back of the law changes due to come into Super League.
Hull FC's Jamie Shaul (SWPIX)Hull FC's Jamie Shaul (SWPIX)
Hull FC's Jamie Shaul (SWPIX)

The dashing full-back is known for his electric pace and ability to beat defenders, something which may become more common when the ‘six again’ is in place once the competition resumes on August 2.

With tiring defenders expected to be exposed around the ruck area, Shaul - who won back-to-back Challenge Cups with Hull in 2016 and 2017 - could come into his own.

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Like his side in general, the 28-year-old has struggled for consistent form since those Wembley highs.

Although Last is not a fan of the rule change, he is excited by how it could aid the one-cap England international's game.

“I cast my mind back to the two dominant seasons we had which were ‘16 and ‘17 and our forward pack was so dominant through that middle channel," he said.

“With that, I thought you saw the best of Jamie Shaul.

“As and when that Plan A wasn’t as effective - in years ‘18 and ‘19 - and our forward pack couldn’t get on that front foot and dominate, our creative players struggled a little bit.

Hull FC caretaker coach Andy Last (SWPIX)Hull FC caretaker coach Andy Last (SWPIX)
Hull FC caretaker coach Andy Last (SWPIX)
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“From looking at the NRL and the players who have really stood out for me in the early rounds (since the ‘six again’ was introduced), it’s players like James Tedesco and Ryan Papenhuyzen.

“It’s those (full-backs) who are challenging the big fellas in and around that middle channel with their speed, footwork and support play.

“That’s where you’re really going to see Jamie Shaul back to the level where he was in ‘16 and ‘17 and I am excited by what Jamie can do on the back of these law changes here.”

Hull are set to resume training on July 20 and Last is looking forward to seeing others thrive when the changes come into play.

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“There’s the likes of Danny Houghton and Albert Kelly, two very creative players who when they get on that front foot can be really effective for us,” he added.

“It’s going to be interesting to see how those guys develop but also the likes of Manu Ma’u and Josh Jones.

“We haven’t seen the best of those guys in the black and white due to circusmtanxces and the fact that Manu picked up a couple of knocks in our early rounds.

“I’m excited to see what they can help the team achieve this season.”

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