HULL FC's clash with Huddersfield made for interesting viewing last weekend because, for me, it showed where the Black and Whites stand in terms of quality this season.
Full-back Shannon McDonnell says they cannot be happy with simply competing against the tougher teams this year, and that shows the players expect more from themselves.
They expect more than just running out as unfortunate, gallant losers in these big games. The tag 'competitors' is a horrible one but, unfortunately, on form so far this season, Hull FC have come up just short against the better clubs in the league.
Last weekend, Huddersfield just had the edge on FC most of the night. The Giants, through the ever-impressive Danny Brough, controlled the game just that little better.
They looked a little more at ease with their team-mates and their structures, and were just slightly more efficient in every department than the Black and Whites.
It's for these reasons I believe Hull will just miss out on a top-four place this year.
Their team is still learning about each other and their main organiser, Daniel Holdsworth, is still new to the club and going to take a little time for all to settle down around him and begin to bear fruit.
Last weekend's game mirrored previous clashes this season against Leeds, Saints and Warrington.
FC were good for much of those contests, but just don't have the craft and guile to break down the most stubborn defences in the competition for vital wins.
This perhaps vindicates the owner and coach's much-publicised chase for another half back to partner Holdsworth for this season.
It is without question a huge step to go from contenders to trophy winners – a step which can take years, even with quality.
Players in key positions need time to settle, and I don't just mean a few weeks.
Understandings have to be built up between key players, between the coach and key players, and between key players and others who play off the back of their structures.
Every club, coach and player differs, and we are currently seeing the difference between Hull and other more established clubs who have key players who are almost part of the furniture.
In the final third of the field, Hull still look a little lost, and still lack craft. They are still unable to find a killer pass, or kick to break their opposition down, but they are clearly heading in the right direction.
They are not turning in too many poor performances, and not being blown away by many teams in Super League.
A similar performance in the capital this weekend will undoubtedly bring a win.
London will fancy their chances at home against FC, and they have to ensure there is no repeat of the horror show at Widnes a few weeks ago.
Worryingly, I still find myself asking which Hull FC team will turn up? If FC play anything like they can, regardless of how the Broncos play, I can only see a Hull win.
I'm tipping FC by 12 points, but for this to happen they must watch Craig Gower closely, as he was the difference between his team and Castleford last weekend.
Coach Peter Gentle won't care less about how the two points come, as long as they do. Ugly or pretty, it's a big game heading into Easter.
