DANNY Houghton says Hull FC must learn the lessons of earlier in the season and not get caught looking ahead of themselves in pursuit of honours.
The Hull vice captain has called for a focused and professional attitude this week as the Black and Whites prepare to take on Salford at the KC Stadium in a game Houghton calls massive for their season.
Knowing victory will guarantee a place in the play-offs, the 24-year-old hooker also believes it will be the perfect preparation for the impending Challenge Cup final.
But rather than start thinking of the play-offs or the significant game against Wigan at Wembley in 10 days time, Houghton says Hull must put all their focus into getting the job done against the Super League strugglers.
"This is a massive game for us on Friday because if we win we will be in the top eight and it keeps us in contention for a home game in the play-offs," Houghton said.
"It will also give us the momentum we need to take into the final and it is important to go into that game on a winning run because once you have that winning habit it is easier to keep it.
"We cannot afford to get caught up with looking too far ahead because we have been stung by that before.
"Our concentration has to be on nothing else than beating Salford and if we do that then we can reap the benefits afterwards."
Hull will start as favourites to pick up a vital two points on Friday against a City Reds team that have endured a difficult season.
In their last outing at the KC, Peter Gentle's side swept Widnes away with ease just five days after their Challenge Cup semi-final victory.
Houghton is hoping for a repeat result this Friday in a game that comes five days after an important, yet physically demanding derby game at MS3 Craven Park.
Hull have all to play for, unlike their opponents who have no chance of the play-offs.
But Houghton is expecting a tough test, and says FC will be punished if they are not switched on.
"Salford may only have pride left to play for, but I don't expect them to lay down at all, they will want to make a statement by beating the cup finalists," added Houghton.
"Every game in Super League is tough, it all comes down to how you apply yourselves and we need to turn up with the right attitude and not lose our focus if we are to win.
"It's an important game and one I'm looking forward to.
"I'm feeling really fresh at the minute, and the longer the season has gone on the better I am feeling.
"I had a shoulder knock earlier in the season, but I'm over that and I'm looking forward to what we've got coming up."
