Each year for a good decade, punters and fans have predicted Hull FC to storm to the top of the Super League table. And, after two wins from two against Leeds and Hull KR, many were predicting FC to enjoy a stellar season.

But, two defeats from their past two games against St Helens and Wigan have brought FC fans back down to earth as they sit in seventh, just two points above Catalans despite playing two more games. The Dragons got their first victory against Castleford two weeks ago in commanding fashion, but have played just two games this year due to the weather and the World Club Challenge last weekend.

Team changes

Lee Radford brings in a number of first-team players, with Albert Kelly and Chris Satae back from suspension and Carlos Tuimavave and Manu Ma’u back from injury. Connor Wynne, Jack Brown, Bureta Faraimo and Joe Cator make way. Dragons boss Steve McNamara has also recalled a host of players with Alrix da Costa, Mickael Simon, and Arthur Mourgue coming back into the 21-man squad as Joel Tomkins, Gavin Marguerite and Lucas Albert drop out.

Last time they met

Hull FC were the victors in the last fixture between these two sides, running out 50-10 emphatic winners in June 2019. Prior to that result, Hull FC in the past at home have been more dominating in wins than the Dragons, will the trend continue is the question.

ERL Prediction

FC’s home advantage could prove to be key. The Dragons beat Castleford comfortably in their last outing, scoring six tries with star Israel Folau looking the part indeed. It’s not beyond the French side’s capability to win here, but Hull’s returning men may prove the difference.

Catalans Dragons for the win.

If we had to pick a Line

Catalans +8.5