Hull FC kicked off their 2026 season with a statement win, but it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Here’s the surprising part: while the scoreline was impressive, the real story lies in the individual performances and the controversies brewing beneath the surface.
Hull FC stormed into the Challenge Cup fourth-round draw with a commanding 60-0 victory over Salford RLFC on a rain-soaked Friday night. While the result was never in doubt, the match itself offered a glimpse into the team’s potential and the challenges they’ll face this season. Let’s dive into the key takeaways.
Mission Accomplished, But Not Without a Fight
Hull’s 60-point haul at Salford was a testament to their Super League pedigree, but it wasn’t a walk in the park. The heavy rain made conditions tricky, and Salford’s spirited performance forced Hull to dig deep. John Cartwright’s side wasn’t flawless, but they showed resilience and clinical finishing when it mattered. Davy Litten’s hat-trick and Cade Cust’s brace highlighted their attacking prowess, while their defensive solidity—keeping Salford scoreless—was arguably the most satisfying aspect of the night. But here’s where it gets controversial: was this a true test of Hull’s strength, or did Salford’s limitations flatter the scoreline?
Jake Arthur’s Debut: A Star is Born?
All eyes were on Hull’s new half-back, Jake Arthur, and he didn’t disappoint. The Australian international made an immediate impact, seamlessly partnering with Aidan Sezer to control the game. His debut try, coupled with pinpoint passing—including a sublime assist to Harvey Barron—marked him as a player to watch. With his family, including Leeds Rhinos coach Brad Arthur, in attendance, the stage was set for a memorable night. But is Arthur the missing piece Hull needs to challenge for silverware, or will tougher opponents expose his inexperience?
The Unsung Hero: Yusuf Aydin
While Harvie Hill, Sam Lisone, and Ligi Sao have dominated the pre-season headlines, Yusuf Aydin quietly delivered another powerhouse performance. Starting at loose forward, the Turkish international was a force of nature, typified by his try—charging down a Salford kick and chasing it down with relentless energy. His explosive carries and work rate were instrumental in Hull’s dominance. And this is the part most people miss: Aydin’s consistency and impact make him a fan favorite and a vital cog in Hull’s pack. Is he finally getting the recognition he deserves?
Jed Cartwright’s Heartbreak
If there’s one player who deserves a break, it’s Jed Cartwright. After a rigorous off-season focused on fitness and lifestyle changes, the back-rower was poised for a breakout year. However, his night ended after just 15 seconds, following a brutal collision that sent him to the hospital. Thankfully, he’s recovering, but he’ll miss the upcoming clash against Bradford Bulls. It’s a cruel twist for a player who’s given so much to the club. Will 2026 finally be his year?
The Penalty Conundrum
The game was marred by a flurry of penalties, particularly for ruck infringements, which disrupted the flow and frustrated both teams. While the conditions didn’t help, the lack of consistency in refereeing decisions left fans and players alike scratching their heads. Here’s the controversial question: are the new interpretations improving the game, or are they stifling its natural rhythm? And will referees and players find a balance before fans lose patience?
What’s Next?
Hull now shift their focus to Super League action, hosting the Bradford Bulls on Valentine’s Day in front of what promises to be a packed house. With an eight-day turnaround, Cartwright’s side has time to recover and refine their game. But will they be ready for a Bradford team eager to make their mark in the top flight?
Over to You
What did you make of Hull’s performance? Is Jake Arthur the real deal, or is it too early to tell? And how do you feel about the new penalty interpretations—are they a step forward or a step too far? Let us know in the comments below!
