Davy Litten numbers strengthen Hull FC case as young fullback records weekly best

Davy Litten was Hull FC's best player last Friday night. You don't need the numbers to work that out, but they offer some further insights into the young full-back's performance.

It may have been another defeat for Hull at Leeds, their seventh in a row, but there was a big positive to take in Litten. The 19-year-old is highly valued at the club with youth development a big area of focus.

Starting at full-back for the first time this season, Litten topped two of the four key GPS metrics in Super League round nine. He covered 9,230 metres at Headingley - the highest total of the round - with Hull KR duo Jordan Abdull (9,023) and Lachlan Coote (8,918) coming behind.

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Litten also performed at a higher intensity than any other player across the round. He worked at an impressive 110 metres per minute - a big effort in what was a really encouraging display.

Fellow Hull FC youngster Will Gardiner was also among the round's high performers, working for 104 metres per minute, with St Helens hooker James Roby just ahead at 105 in their time on the field

Litten, continuously praised by the likes of Tony Smith and Tex Hoy this year, also made 141 metres with the ball, the highest of the Hull team. He made two clean breaks, scored a try and was safe under the high bomb. There's also room for improvement, which is a good thing, with four errors being one area to tidy up.

All in all, the 19-year-old was a firm example that youth brought some energy and exuberance into the Hull FC side, with both players justifying their inclusions. They should be in contention to play again against Huddersfield Giants this Sunday afternoon.

The latest House of League episode welcomes Warrington CEO Karl Fitzpatrick who talks all about the Wire's turnaround this year and how Hull FC can follow suit. You can listen to the full show below or alternatively subscribe on Spotify, Amazon Music or Apple Music.

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