The Betfred Super League is as competitive as ever, this year and the clash between Huddersfield Giants and Hull FC on Thursday 27 July looks like it could be another close affair at the John Smith’s Stadium.

The Giants have improved their chances of avoiding relegation recently, beating Catalans Dragons and Wakefield Trinity to move eight points away from the latter at the bottom of the table.

They are four points behind Friday’s opponents, Hull FC, who could improve their playoff hopes with a win, although they are without a win at the John Smith’s Stadium since March 2019.

Team news

Huddersfield Giants boss Ian Watson has recalled Theo Fages and Seb Ikahihifo to his 21-man squad, with Will Pryce and Jack Ashworth the two to drop out.

Harvey Livett is still on the sidelines due to a dislocated elbow, but Kevin Naiqama appears to have shaken off a hamstring issue to make the squad.

Black and Whites coach Tony Smith has added Will Gardiner and Zach Jebson to his squad, replacing Carlos Tuimavave and Jamie Shaul, while Tex Hoy is still unavailable due to injury.

Hull FC to win @ 6/4

Both sides should be fresh for Thursday’s tie, having had a week’s rest as the Super League took a break for the Challenge Cup semi-finals.

Huddersfield and Hull FC have won their last two matches, so it is tough to pick a clear winner, but the value certainly lies with the away side.

The Black and Whites may have a poor record at Huddersfield of late, but they are in better form. Smith’s troops have won seven of their last 10 games in Super League, so we have to back them at odds against this week.

Hull FC to win by 1-12 points @ 5/2

While we expect Smith’s men to prevail, they shouldn’t walk away with proceedings, especially on their travels.

A win for Huddersfield could all but confirm they will not be involved in the relegation scrap, so they will be fighting for the full 80 minutes.

Hull FC have conceded at least 12 points in six of their previous eight matches in all competitions, so they should be able to prevail, but expect a relatively close affair on Thursday night.