"SATURDAY'S four pointer at Huddersfield was a real nerve jangling thriller which demonstrated a new depth of character in the team.

"The boot of Chris Johnson, Huddersfield's stand-off was controlling the game and not allowing us any field position from which to attack, then came what turned out to be the turning point in the match.

"We lost Rob Quarry - red carded for a rucking offence.

"The boys asked themselves the question as to whether we still had the capacity to win and had the answer.

"Coach Jon 'Bully' Nicholson held his nerve, stuck with the game plan and was rewarded with a full-house performance.

"Although a man down, Kendal's pack drove their opposite numbers over for a mauled try in the corner, and Dan Stephens, despite spending the night in the maternity unit at the birth of his second child, still had enough energy to convert right from the touch flag.

"We had the lead and our impressive army of travelling supporters made sure everyone knew. It was like a home game and the boys reacted to it. When Nick McKain scored again in injury time to finally seal victory it brought the curtain down on what was a performance full of character.

"Our league leader's position brings with it a set of different pressures.

"Every game is the opposition's cup final and our players have to be able to motivate themselves for every match.

"This starts on the training field and has been evident over the past few weeks.

"This week's opposition will be no pushovers. Hull are coached by experienced Geoff Wappett and are in the middle of a re-building programme.

"They have acquired some new players and field a very strong pack with two towers in the second row and Sam Newton, a former Lakes School and Kendal youth team player, in the centre. I'm sure he'll enjoy his return to Mint Bridge in what will be a tough match."