Friday night’s game between Warrington and Hull could potentially be the standout game of the season so far – and it’s sparked a debate about a particular issue on social media in the build-up to the game: which side has the better pack?
Both sides look hugely impressive on paper when it comes to the men in the forwards, and that’s nothing against the backs. But with so many from both sides tipped to push for England this year, we’ve assessed the options Wire and FC have in the pack and are going to throw it open to you to decide which team has the best pack! Here’s the lowdown on each.
The power in the props
For Warrington, it’s the brute force of Chris Hill and Ashton Sims, who look as fearsome a duo on paper as any in the league. They’ve both been around for years now, and with Hill’s lengthy stints and Sims looking to have really found his top form in Super League this year, they’re a menacing pair to handle.
Hull have their own impressive props, though. Scott Taylor has been the undoubted standout – and maybe the best prop in the competition this year. Backed up well by Liam Watts and Chris Green, Hull’s heavily English props gave Taylor able support indeed.
The hookers who have stole the show
It’s no secret that a major part of both Warrington and Hull’s success this year has been down to the hooking department. The Wire’s Daryl Clark is rediscovering the form which won him the 2014 Man of Steel, and he has been key to the Wolves all year, with his form not going unrecognised.
Hull’s Danny Houghton has long been considered unlucky to never get a shot for England, but if Wayne Bennett is going off a clean slate this year, he has to be in the mix. Houghton is tough, uncompromising and as good a dummy-half as you’ll see with English heritage.
The talent on the edges
The talent in both sides’ packs keeps on coming, this time out wide on the edges in the back-row. Warrington have an abundance of talent there, with Jack Hughes really settling into life at the Wolves well this year – but it’s Ben Currie who is the star in that particular position. He remains the Wolves’, and perhaps England’s best back-rower this year after some exceptional performances.
Hull have plenty of star power there too, though. Frank Pritchard and Sika Manu have been exceptional this year, and with big names like Mark Minichiello and Gareth Ellis also excelling in the back-row, Hull have more options than most to choose from.
And the big bonus?
Most of both sides’ packs are English! Bennett could arguably pick a fearsome pack just from Warrington and Hull alone which, for England, is a huge bonus to have such depth at their disposal. But which side has the better forwards? Be sure to let us know on social media!
