Hull FC will face the London Broncos at Magic Weekend in a pivotal match that could play a decisive role in determining who finishes at the bottom of the Super League in 2024.
Even though finishing 12th does not lead to automatic relegation, there is still a significant amount of pride at stake, especially with relegation being determined by IMG grading rather than solely by on-field results.
Currently, Hull FC are only two points ahead of the London Broncos. If the Broncos win at Elland Road, both teams will be level on six points, with only the points difference separating them.
Fortunately for Hull FC, they were ranked as a Grade A club in the preliminary IMG rankings and are expected to maintain that grading, which means they are safe from relegation. This has significantly eased the pressure on them for the 2024 season.
In contrast, London Broncos face a more precarious situation, having been ranked 24th with a low Grade B in the preliminary rankings, suggesting they are likely to be relegated.
Hull FC head coach Simon Grix has now addressed how he plans to motivate his team for the crucial clash against their fellow strugglers.
‘Imagine relegation was in play’ – How Hull FC are preparing for Magic Weekend
Credit: Imago Images
Simon Grix has addressed Hull FC’s fans on the club’s YouTube channel ahead of their match against London Broncos, which will kick off Magic Weekend on Saturday.
The Hull FC head coach has suggested that his team needs to imagine a scenario where on-field relegation is still a reality to help drive them to deliver their best performance.
He explained: “We’re in a situation where there is no relegation. Now, imagine if it were still in play and consider where we find ourselves.
“Play the imagination game where your jobs are on the line and three months from now, you could be looking at something very different from a full-time rugby league career.
“If that doesn’t spark some motivation, I’m not sure what will.”
Unfortunately, what Grix refers to about job security is a reality for London Broncos players, with the club entering the 2024 season with a staggering 26 players out of contract at the end of the season.
Some of their top talent has already been poached, with Bill Leyland moving to Hull KR and Ethan Natoli joining Pia Donkeys. There are now reports linking Ollie Leyland with a move to Warrington Wolves.
On the other hand, Hull FC has been able to recruit with confidence, knowing they will remain in Super League. This has led to criticism from Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont, who has accused Hull FC of ‘putting the cue in the rack’ in 2024 and lacking ambition.