York Knights secure historic win
The York Knights achieved their third consecutive Super League victory, a first in the club’s history, by defeating Hull FC. This result marked the Knights’ sixth win of the campaign, moving them to ninth in the table and placing them above Hull FC, who have recorded only one away win this season.
The match saw York Knights overcome a 16-8 deficit at half-time. Tries from David Nofoaluma, Jon Bennison, Denive Balmforth, and Nikau Williams, along with two successful kicks from Bennison, contributed to their comeback. Hull FC had initially taken the lead with three tries within 12 minutes during the first half, but their performance was marked by errors in the second period.
Match details and key moments
York Knights opened the scoring with Nofoaluma touching down in the left corner in the eighth minute, followed by Bennison collecting a try after two chip kicks from Cody Hunter, putting them 8-0 ahead. However, Aidan Sezer’s try in the 25th minute brought Hull FC back into the game. Tom Briscoe then scored in the 30th minute, and Joe Batchelor completed the turnaround for Hull FC with a try from a Hugo Salabio offload. Zak Hardaker converted twice, giving Hull FC a strong position at the interval.
The second half saw York’s fightback begin with Balmforth’s try just three minutes in, with Bennison adding the extras. A penalty from Bennison then levelled the score at 16-16. Hull FC’s discipline faltered, conceding six penalties in the first 20 minutes of the second half. Williams then jinked through to score, giving York the lead. Towards the end of the match, veteran hooker Paul McShane made a crucial last-ditch tackle on Herman Ese’ese near the try line, dislodging the ball and preventing Hull FC from levelling the score.
Coaches’ reactions and team news
Mark Applegarth, head coach for York Knights, expressed pride in his team’s character, particularly after their second-half performance. He noted that he was displeased at half-time with the team’s contact and intent, but praised their response and grit in the latter stages of the game. Applegarth highlighted the team’s defensive effort in the final 15 minutes, despite some unforced errors.
Andy Last, interim head coach for Hull FC, conveyed his disappointment with much of his team’s performance, particularly the first 20 minutes and the initial 20 minutes of the second half. He cited ill-discipline as a major factor, leading to penalties that allowed York to gain field position easily. Last mentioned that the team’s attitude and execution of basics were discussed prior to the game, but they collectively and individually failed to deliver. He also acknowledged disruption due to Jed Cartwright’s departure to St Helens, which necessitated late changes to the squad, though he stated this was not an excuse.
Hull FC’s 21-man squad for the match included returns for Harvey Barron, Ethan O’Neill, and Yusuf Aydin. These players replaced Davy Litten, Will Hutchinson, and Jeremiah Mata’utia. Several players remained sidelined due to injuries, including Will Pryce, John Asiata, Sam Lisone, Ligi Sao, Arthur Romano, Connor Bailey, Brad Fash, Will Kirby, and Joe Ward. The match was officiated by Tara Jones.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
