PERHAPS the quiet build-up to Hull FC's cup clash with North Wales Crusaders played a part, but the focus this week has again been on recruitment not match day.
Brett Seymour's departure from Hull with 18 months of his contract remaining had been expected.
That said, it was a swift announcement by Hull this week regarding the Aussie's exit coming a matter of hours after our breaking story he had entered into negotiations regarding his exit.
Seymour's current situation demands his focus must be on more important matters than rugby league and from Hull's point of view, the timing at least affords them the chance to find a replacement.
With over half the season still to play, Hull have time to bring in a new half-back. That, however, doesn't mean they will.
Peter Gentle stressed at his weekly press conference the focus remains on finding a new face for next season.
That isn't to say Hull will pass up the opportunity to bring someone in for this year if they can, but finding that player may well prove too difficult.
Jacob Miller may be an option Hull have looked at, but that doesn't mean he'll just drop everything and walk away from the final year of his deal at Wests Tigers.
Nor does it mean Wests will allow him to leave, especially with Benji Marshall and Braith Anasta currently sidelined for the next few weeks at least.
I suspect Hull will, for now, keep their powder dry.
A dip into the loan market, which has served them well in the past, could well be the answer.
While the build-up has been quiet, let's not forget there's a game to be won and one which it seems Hull are taking very seriously.
Gentle has named a strong squad and is showing the Crusaders every ounce of respect.
Hull are hot favourites of course, but there's a feeling of not only wanting to avoid a slip-up but also of building on their recent good results with an encouraging display.
For Kirk Yeaman especially, the match will provide a good chance to work on his timing and fitness.
Yeaman's presence in a youthful back division is key, not only for today's game but also with a bigger test to come next week at home to Wigan Warriors.
