Brett Hodgson has spoken of his passion for the Betfred Challenge Cup ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final tie with Huddersfield Giants at the John Smith’s Stadium.
The head coach won the Challenge Cup with Warrington Wolves in his playing career, so the Australian knows a thing or two about the competition.
The Black & Whites are looking to reach their fifth Challenge Cup semi-final in seven years this weekend, and Hodgson says he can feel the buzz around camp.
“I love the competition for the reason that you have to leave everything you have out on the field or else you could find yourself out,” Hodgson said.
“Every game is almost a mini cup final because there are no second chances.
“There’s always just a different feel to the Challenge Cup, as well. There’s an upbeat mood around the place and it’s becoming exciting now we’re moving towards the pointy-end of the competition.”
The Black & Whites head into Saturday’s game looking to bounce back from last week’s narrow defeat to Wigan Warriors at the DW Stadium, albeit buoyed by a spirited performance against Matt Peet’s side.
It was just Hull’s third defeat of the 2022 campaign, having already won matches against Wakefield, Salford, Leeds, Huddersfield and Sheffield.
But Hodgson insists that there is still room for improvement for the Black & Whites.
“I think we have been travelling OK, but I still think that there is some improvement in us,” Hodgson said.
“There are elements that we have to improve against a side like Huddersfield.
“But I won’t be too hasty about it. We’re seven Super League games in and we’re into the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup, so it’s been a good start and I feel that we can keep improving every week.”
STORY SPONSOR
