TWO of Wigan's star players believe the 'Gareth Ellis factor' has played a major role in Hull making it all the way to Wembley this season.
Sam Tomkins and Sean O'Loughlin will be two key men in the Warriors' plans to prevent the Black and Whites walking away from Wembley with the Challenge Cup trophy in their hands.
And both know that with England team-mate Ellis in the FC ranks, Hull cannot be underestimated come kick-off time on Saturday afternoon.
"Hull have one of the most experienced players in the comp in Gaz Ellis," said Tomkins.
"He's like Lockers (O'Loughlin). He's a big, talented bloke, he's got a pass game, he's tough, and he'll make others play well.
"He won the players' player of the year award three years in a row at Wests, which tells you the calibre of player he is.
"Hull signed well and had the expectations. They're now showing that form and they'll gain massive confidence from their semi-final win over Warrington, who were the form team of the competition. It can only make you stronger."
O'Loughlin added: "The side Hull have got, they're probably playing the way everyone expected them to at the start.
"Gaz Ellis is a really solid player, he does everything very well. I don't know the inside of their camp, but he's a leader on the field and as he's got back from injury I don't think it's a coincidence that the team has started playing better as well."
