Hull FC vs Castleford Tigers Super League Round 23 Tips & Prediction
Hull FC are backed to build on last week's win over St Helens and cover the -14.5 handicap against a Castleford side whose defence has fallen apart.
The Tigers have conceded 144 points across their last three defeats, shipping 52 to Wakefield, 48 to Warrington and 44 to Hull KR. That is a major concern against a Hull side whose attack has been moving the ball much better through the middle and towards the edges.
Jake Arthur's kicking game should help Hull dominate territory, while Herman Ese'ese, Harvie Hill and the returning Sam Lisone give the hosts a clear size advantage through the middle.
Harvey Barron is also a standout tryscorer option after crossing five times in his last four games. With Castleford's edge defence struggling badly, Barron is worth backing both anytime and for 2+ tries.
- Hull FC vs Castleford Tigers Stats & Trends
- Castleford have conceded 144 points across their last three defeats.
- Castleford have allowed 44+ points in each of their last three games.
- Hull FC beat St Helens 32-18 last week.
- Harvey Barron has scored five tries in his last four games.
- Castleford have lost five of their last six.
- Hull have scored 18+ points in five of their last six matches.
Hull FC Form Analysis
Hull snapped a seven-game losing run with an impressive 32-18 away win over St Helens and their recent attacking performances have been better than the results suggest.
Arthur and Aidan Sezer are linking well with the back-rowers, while Hull's bigger pack should give them a significant territorial advantage against Castleford.
Castleford Tigers Form Analysis
Castleford are in dreadful defensive form and have been blown away in three consecutive matches.
Their backline has been heavily disrupted and the Tigers are struggling to contain teams once they lose the middle. Against a Hull side capable of generating repeat sets and shifting quickly to the edges, another difficult night looks likely.
Hull FC vs Castleford Tigers Team News
Hull FC lose Yusuf Aydin for the rest of the season with a knee injury, joining John Asiata, Connor Bailey, Brad Fash and Joe Ward on the sidelines. Sam Lisone and Ligi Sao return to strengthen the pack, while Davy Litten is also back.
Castleford welcome Mikaele Ravalawa back following his loan spell, while Tom Weaver returns from a head injury and Daniel Sarbah is also included in the squad.