PETER Gentle admits Hull FC must improve to remain in Super League's top eight as they enter a difficult run of games.
The Hull coach is refusing to get carried away following a four-match unbeaten run, insisting his side are still misfiring.
Set to take on leaders Wigan Warriors at the KC Stadium tomorrow night, Hull also have games against the likes of Warrington and Leeds on the horizon, as well as the Magic Weekend derby with Hull KR, and Wakefield in the Challenge Cup.
And Gentle says Hull need to maintain their position in the top eight ahead of key players such as Gareth Ellis, Danny Tickle, Daniel Holdsworth and Ben Galea returning from injury.
"To get into the top eight is significant after what we have been through so far this season," he said.
"We need to hang on to that place now and make sure we don't fall by the wayside. We need to hang on to the top eight and make sure we are within striking distance when we get our squad back.
"We've won the last four but they are not victories that we have been raving about. We are still struggling in quite a few areas.
"We are doing what we need to do to get the points. There has been no momentum swing and I wouldn't say we are on a roll, we are finding a way to win. We are still misfiring but we are picking up wins."
Hull will welcome back four of their senior players for the visit of Wigan, with Shannon McDonnell, Mark O'Meley, Tom Briscoe and Richard Whiting all returning to the squad.
Marquee signing Gareth Ellis is still missing, but is on course to make his long-awaited debut next week at home to London Broncos.
HULL have refused to confirm the departure of assistant coach Andy Hay, saying a statement will be made on the matter next week.
