Smith tips Hull for more success

Smith says Hull's squad has more depth this year

By BBC Sport Online's Phil Gordos

Jason Smith reckons Hull can upset Super League's big guns again in 2002, but says Bradford are the team to fear.

The Australian, skipper for the forthcoming campaign, is upbeat about his side's chances following the acquisition of players like Warrington's Toa Kohe-Love and Chris Chester from Wigan.

"Kohe-Love is a great buy for us. We all know what he can do and we were missing that class centre last year," said Smith.

We were fortunate with injuries, but most teams realised early on what we were capable of

Hull skipper
Jason Smith

"We've definitely got a better playing personnel. And if we play to our ability and play as a team, then I don't see why we can't improve."

Hull caught a few people by surprise in 2001, finishing third at the end of the regular season before falling to St Helens in the play-offs.

"We had an exceptional year," said Smith. "We were fortunate with injuries, but most teams realised early on what we were capable of.

"We got a point off Bradford and could have won the game. We also pushed St Helens all the way and then took two points off them towards the end of the season."

Should injuries be more of a problem this time around, Smith says the squad will be able to cope.

"We've got strength in depth now," he said. "We've still got a few young players who are short on experience, but as long as we can throw them in one or two at a time, we should be fine."

Kohe-Love will give Hull an added cutting edge

More will be expected of up-and-coming stars Richard Horne and Paul King after they both shot to prominence last season, earning call-ups for Great Britain.

And Smith says they are ready to take the lead and can inspire the other young members in the squad.

"Richard is only 20, but he's been around for a long time. He's got the experience," said Smith.

"As for Paul, he's been training a lot harder and is determined to get even fitter.

"We'll see what they can do but they can still improve. They are not the finished articles."

Smith thinks Bradford will be favourites when the season commences at the start of March.

"They've lost Henry Paul, who is a great player, but they've brought in Brandon Costin and Lesley Vainikolo," said Smith.

"They won the Grand Final comfortably and I can't see any reason why they shouldn't be challenging again."