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With the Magic Weeknd upon us, Rugby League visits the city of Newcastle and it’s Warrington Wolves who currently lead the pack.
But with Wigan Warriors and Catalan Dragons trialing by just two points and facing off against each other on Saturday, Warrington have the chance to extend the gap on at least one of those respective sides when facing Hull FC, whilst maintaining their position at the top of the tree as we surpass the midway point of the Super League season.
It’s been a magical response from Wire who endured a fairly dismal 2022 season with Head Coach Daryl Powell under heaps of pressure ahead of this season. But Powell has well and truly rode the wave, taking 2023 in his stride and leading his side to ten wins from 13 Super League games and the quarter finals of the Challenge Cup.
Whilst it would be foolish to say anything is won yet, Wire know all-too well how this kind of position can soon fade away. But nevertheless, they’re enjoying every minute and rightly so.
Their opponents – Hull FC have had a mixed start to the campaign but have picked up some form as of late. After losing seven of their opening eight fixtures, FC have just endured a run of five games without defeat before the string of results was ended by Salford Red Devils last time out.
But despite the loss, with plenty of recruitment being put in place off the field, FC are looking stronger and more positive as the season flows on. Whilst they face the arguably toughest test possible this weekend, it would be foolish to rule them out of pulling off an upset given their recent upturn in form.
In terms of team news, Hull FC remain without Carlos Tuimavave (hamstring), Mitch Vulikijapani (ACL), and Davy Litten (ankle) through injury.
As for the league leader, Wire see Josh Thewlis return to contention having missed last week’s game against Leigh Leopards with a knee injury. Josh Drinkwater is back having served a one-match suspension and Josh McGuire is ruled out with a knee injury.
Here are the 21-man squads in full:
? Tony Smith has named his 21-man squad ahead of Sunday's Magic Weekend clash against @WarringtonRLFC at St James' Park…
? In association with @JadanPress.
⚫️⚪️ #COYH
— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) June 2, 2023
? Our 21-man squad for Magic!
W/ @CheshireMould pic.twitter.com/X4sNuiNnDo
— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) June 2, 2023
With Wire playing after a number of the chasing pack, they’ll know exactly what’s riding on what feels like a huge Magic Weekend in the North East.
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