Wigan Warriors v Hull FC: Ruthless streak will aid Hull's bid to slow Wigan

The Airlie Birds are seeking a fourth straight win and have lost just one of their five games so far, a narrow home reverse against Catalans Dragons.

However, the trip to World Club champions Wigan will be their sternest test yet.

“Wigan are always strong in the middle,” said Radford, about opponents who have not been beaten for 11 matches dating back to an 8-6 loss against Widnes Vikings on September 1.

“It’s very similar to how it was last year; they’re a very forward-dominated, physical team.

“We’re going to have to match them at that and take our opportunities when they arrive. You only have to look at the league table. They’ve got a very good system in place in defence and apply themselves very well to that.

“From a defensive perspective, we’ve just to continue what we’ve been doing but there will be moments in the game when the wind is in our sails and we have to capitalise on that.”

Wigan’s 100 per cent sequence was ended last week when they could only manage a draw against Huddersfield Giants and they are without captain Sean O’Loughlin tonight who has been added to a growing injury list.

Hull have their own personal issues with in-form Kiwi centre Carlos Tuimavave and winger Fetuli Talanoa both missing.

However, stand-off Albert Kelly is in terrific form as the Challenge Cup holders bid to continue their solid start.

“We are going well without being special,” insisted Radford.

“You don’t pick a trophy up at this time of year unfortunately.

“We are where we set out to be. We wanted to be amongst the front-runners in the comp’ and hopefully we still are after Friday.

“We are not getting carried away. Widnes were top at this stage of the season last year and looked how that panned out.

“The more points we can pick up the better for us. Friday’s obviously big because it’s two big clubs. We have got a lot of respect for each other.

“You only have to look at the quality players who are going to line up at the DW Stadium.”