Warrington retain top-two hopes with win at Hull FC

Warrington Wolves secured a hard-fought 18-12 victory at Hull FC on Saturday, maintaining their sixth consecutive Super League win and keeping their hopes alive for a top-two finish. Matty Ashton’s 18th try of the season proved pivotal as Sam Burgess’s side held off a late Hull comeback in wet and challenging conditions at the MKM Stadium.

The Wire struck first through Ethan O’Neill, while Tom Briscoe—playing his final home game before retirement—added a second to bring Hull within two points. However, Warrington responded with three unanswered tries in quick succession, including Ashton’s second of the game, to take control. Josh Thewlis extended the lead after Hull were reduced to 12 men following Ligi Sao’s sin-binning for a high shot on Ashton. Despite a spirited late rally from Hull, Warrington held firm to claim the win.

The match began in controversial fashion when Hull’s James Batchelor was sin-binned inside the first minute for a tackle on Arron Lindop, who later failed a head injury assessment. Warrington captain George Williams opened the scoring with a drop goal before Aidan Sezer levelled the game with a penalty goal for Hull. Moments before half-time, Hull’s defensive errors under high kicks allowed Hayes and Ashton to score, putting the visitors ahead.

Hull FC’s late fightback began when O’Neill crossed again, followed by Briscoe’s 233rd career try, his first since returning from injury. However, Warrington’s defence held firm, preserving their lead as Hull finished with 13 men after Sao was involved in further incidents following his earlier sin-binning.

With the win, Warrington remain just two points behind Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors in the Super League table. They now face Wakefield Trinity next Saturday, while Hull travel to Toulouse Olympique on Friday.

The game was officiated by referee Chris Kendall, with Hull’s squad including Briscoe in his final appearance before retirement.

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