PETER Gentle says the Challenge Cup needs to take precedence again after what he calls a watering down of the competition in recent years.
An avid watcher of the Wembley showpiece in his formative years growing up in Australia, Gentle admits the cup fever which used to take hold just as much Down Under as it did in England, has been missing to some extent in recent years.
Pointing to his team selection for tomorrow's game against North Wales Crusaders as evidence of his own approach to the cup, the Hull FC coach says there is no chance of him treating the competition with anything but maximum respect.
"The cup used to be very popular back home, just as it used to be very popular over here too," Gentle told the Mail.
"I think the cup has been watered down a little bit in the last few years and it needs to take precedence again. It is a separate competition to Super League, but it is unique to rugby league in this country and there is nothing like it in the NRL.
"The fact it is a knockout competition makes it exciting. The fans enjoy it and we do too. The fact it doesn't matter where you are sitting on the ladder is great, each round is a fresh start for everyone and all the teams are equal.
"The cup is a priority this week and my team selection will show that."
Gentle's squad for the visit of Championship One opponents North Wales Crusaders is one of youth and experience.
But rather than rest several of his key men, the changes have been enforced thanks to injuries to the likes of Richard Whiting, Mark O'Meley, Tom Briscoe and Shannon McDonnell.
Taking their place, there is a first appearance of the season for Danny Nicklas and James Cunningham, while Jack Briscoe gets a first call-up since Gentle arrived at the club.
Adding necessary experience, Paul Johnson and Kirk Yeaman return from injury, while Jamie Shaul will start at full-back in his second professional appearance.
"I've not rested anyone this week," added Gentle. "There are a few guys I cannot afford to risk who have knocks, but nobody is rested and this game is win at all costs, that's what makes the cup so great.
"It sends a bad message resting your players in the cup. We respect anyone who pulls the jumper on.
"We have prepared all week like we would for a Super League side and I won't be compromising ourselves this week, that sends a bad message."
Gentle is desperate to lead his side out at Wembley on August 24, but first of all he's eager to experience a maiden win in the cup.
Struggling with injuries last season, Hull were dumped out of the cup at the first hurdle by Huddersfield Giants.
"Last year it was all very new to me and we were not in very good shape after Easter. This year we are in a much better place," he explained.
While the cup takes priority, the Black and Whites coach has this week also turned his attention to finding a replacement for Brett Seymour, who has been released from his deal.
Calling it an on-going process, Gentle says the club are continually looking to bring in a new half-back, but admits it may not be possible for this season.
"I don't know whether we will be able to do anything this year with what is available," said Gentle.
"I don't think there is a lot out there and we may have to explore loan options.
"When we sign someone we'll let people know and until then I won't be commenting on any names or identifying who we are talking to."
