Hull FC's 'character never in doubt' as they give play-off-bound Warrington a fright

Sam Burgess’s side looked to be cruising to a sixth straight win after back-to-back tries from Leon Hayes and Matty Ashton put them well in control towards the end of the first half.

The hosts had more than matched their opponents in the opening stages and had looked set to reach the interval on level terms after Warrington captain George Williams and FC’s Aidan Sezer traded early penalties.

But hesitation on the end of two high kicks cost the home side dear and enabled Warrington to go in at the interval with a comfortable 10-point advantage.

When Josh Thewlis crossed for Warrington’s third try 10 minutes into the second half it looked all over, but the Black and Whites, playing their last home game of the season, belatedly stirred.

Quick converted tries from Ethan O’Neill and Tom Briscoe – who is preparing to bring his 17-year career to a close – thrust them back into contention and left the visitors clinging on to seal a top four slot.

Warrington’s win may also have come at a price after Aaron Lindop failed a head injury assessment while Burgess lost both Luke Thomas and Joe Philbin to apparent leg injuries.

Hull boss Andy Last was proud of his side’s effort.

“I’ve only questioned the team’s character once this year and that was against Leigh,” he told Hull Live. “The question surrounding character, there isn’t one; they answer that question on a regular basis.

“We’ve faced some real adversity this year with lots of injuries and lots of stuff that’s gone on off the field and the players have kept it together and put in some strong performances.”