Warrington Wolves vs Hull FC Prediction: Both sides eye first league win of the season

On Friday night, the Warrington Wolves will host their inaugural Betfred Super League game of the Sam Burgess era, welcoming a bruised Hull FC to the Halliwell Jones Stadium after their recent defeat to Hull KR in the local derby. Both teams have faced losses in their initial league encounters; the question now is, which side will secure a victory in this upcoming match?

Warrington Wolves commenced their season with a loss against Catalans Dragons, concluding with a score of 16-10. At halftime, the Wolves trailed 6-4, and although they hoped for a stronger second half, the Dragons took charge, scoring 10 points compared to Warrington Wolves' 6. Despite the defeat, there is a sense of optimism within the Wolves camp, considering their resilient performance that lasted until the final minute.

For the upcoming match, Warrington Wolves are set to make at least two changes. Jordan Crowther is suspended for one match following the defeat in France, opening the possibility for teenager Max Wood to make his debut. Despite scoring a try in his debut last week, teenager Arron Lindop is omitted from the squad, with Josh Thewlis expected to return after missing out last week due to the birth of his first child. Hooker Brad Dwyer remains excluded from the squad.

Hull FC, coming off a decisive defeat to Hull KR in their week one derby, enters this match with the intention of making a strong statement. In the previous derby, Hull FC faced complete domination, losing 0-22 without managing a response in either half of the game. Notably, their struggles have persisted since 2023, enduring a six-match winless streak.

The team faces significant challenges in the pack due to suspensions, with Franklin Pele and Ligi Sao both receiving red cards in the derby. Pele's initial four-match ban for head contact has been reduced to three games following a successful appeal. Additionally, Ligi Sao serves a one-game ban, and another forward, Herman Ese’Ese, is suspended for two matches for head contact. The team will need to overcome these absences as they aim to rebound in this upcoming match.

Hull FC had a disappointing performance last week, but despite their considerable list of absent players, it's anticipated that they won't replicate such a poor showing. Warrington Wolves are strongly favored to win convincingly, but I predict a more closely contested match, especially if the disciplinary concerns that hindered the Wolves in their previous game against 12 men resurface. Sam Burgess, motivated for a strong performance in his inaugural home game, is expected to lead a determined effort. While I anticipate him achieving success, Hull FC, stung by their recent performance, is likely to make this match quite challenging.