Super League: Hull FC ease to victory over Huddersfield Giants

Josh Griffin's try was Hull FC's third in the opening 22 minutes

Hull FC ran in five first-half tries as they got their season back on track in style against Huddersfield Giants.

A devastating first-half display saw Albert Kelly crash over with Marc Sneyd, Josh Griffin, Jack Brown and Mahe Fonua also all crossing.

Ashton Golding's try before the break gave a sniff of a chance for Giants.

And although Hull lost the influential Sneyd to injury and saw Jordan Turner also cross for Giants, a fine defensive effort ensured an impressive victory.

The Black and Whites were thrashed 54-18 by Salford last time out and had their last fixture called off because 12 players and staff tested positive for Covid-19.

But they looked far from rusty or lacking in confidence as they dominated the first period to ensure a fourth defeat in a row in all competitions for their opponents.

Hull, who move to within two points of third-placed Catalans Dragons, made the most of consecutive penalties in Giants territory to take an early lead as Kelly kept low and powered through three challenges to go over from close range.

Sneyd profited from some sloppy Giants play to add a second try, scooping up a misplaced pass and racing more than half the length of the pitch.

The third score soon followed, Sneyd showing typical creativity with a cute kick that bounced perfectly for Griffin to touch down.

Marc Sneyd's afternoon ended early but he had already played a key part in his side's victory

Sneyd's afternoon was to end before the break when he landed awkwardly and badly twisted his right ankle after leaping to win possession.

But with brute strength by 20-year-old prop Brown seeing him muscle through and just about spin his way to the line for the fourth try, and Fonua also crossing the game was as good as won.

Some slick play saw Golding and Turner reduce the gap, but the Black and Whites defence stayed strong and kicks from Griffin and Shaul extended the margin of victory.

Huddersfield: Golding, McGillvary, Cudjoe, J. Wardle, McIntosh, Russell, Holmes, English, O'Brien, Matagi, Edwards, Turner, Lawrence.

Replacements: Hewitt, Wood, Wilson, Gavet.

Hull FC: Shaul, Naulago, Tuimavave, Griffin, Faraimo, Kelly, Sneyd, Ellis, Johnstone, Fash, Lane, Ma'u, Cator.

Replacements: Houghton, Satae, Fonua, Brown.

Referee: C. Kendall.

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