AFTER a much-needed break, Peter Gentle's men head to Castleford tonight in a match they are firm favourites to win.
It's a game where recording a victory will help them to push on in their bid to make the top four and help them forget about a poor showing in France.
It's the ideal game to begin another run of victories heading into a crunch quarter-final cup clash back in France in a month.
The match against Castleford is in many ways similar to the Widnes fixture back in round five. I believe the Black and Whites have moved on as a group since then and they look every bit a top-four club based on form, with nine wins from their last 11 outings.
In my opinion, Hull will win and win well after a week to freshen up.
However, Castleford are still a very dangerous team, under the new stewardship of Daryl Powell, with their new structures starting to take shape and the Tigers will fancy themselves at home.
Overcoming Castleford's belief early on will be the big test for Hull. Every game begins 0-0, but should the Black and Whites start poorly, turning the ball over, showing ill-discipline and giving away penalties then Castleford's belief will grow.
It's as much a mental test for FC as it is a physical one. The FC attitude must match the Tigers' own and if they do I expect an 18-point victory. If they don't it could well be a tough old night. Castleford's key man: Other than the always influential Rangi Chase, former Hull FC full-back Jordan Tansey is a very dangerous player. Playing some great rugby after a turbulent time off the field, he will want to do well as a former FC player. Tansey has some great skills, is quick with good footwork and can find a defence-splitting pass or kick on edge shots. He is also a very good ball runner so FC must limit his influence.
