Hull FC winger Tom Lineham is hoping their Magic Weekend battle at St James’ Park on Saturday (4.45pm) with Hull Kingston Rovers can be the inspiration to get back to winning ways and climb into the top eight.
Lineham, who has touched down five times in his last five First Utility Super League games, is aware of the magnitude of the city derby as well as the importance to claim another two points.
“It’s always a big game no matter where either team is in the league table, but even more so in the position that we’re in at the moment,” said Lineham.
“We were on a good run and then we were on the end of a disappointing defeat to St Helens last week in a really close game, so we definitely need to bounce back with two points against them.
“It is a massive game. Within the walls of Hull it’s absolutely huge and it’s all that gets spoken about in the weeks building up to it. We need to get the win for the fans and to make our way back into the top eight.”
Hull FC were on the wrong of the scoreline at Magic Weekend in 2014, and Lineham can’t wait to take to the field at another huge stadium on Saturday.
“I’m a big football fan, so I like playing in the big football stadiums which is my favourite thing about it,” he said.
“I think it’s a great spectacle for the fans to be in one place over one weekend and to get to watch all the games which is really good for the sport and it’s getting bigger and bigger.
“I’m really looking forward to it. Rugby League will be taking over Newcastle for the weekend and it will be great to see some of the locals coming along to St James’ Park to see us.
“It’s not every day that you get the chance to play there so I’m really excited about playing in a big event like Magic Weekend.”