Our young lads showed real mental toughness in battle!

LAST Saturday's win over Hull was tremendous - I thought our lads showed tremendous spirit. Although I don't normally make the best spectator, I really enjoyed watching it.

Considering the heat in which the game was played, there was no lack of intensity with both sides going at it hammer and tongs for 80 minutes.

Apart from the odd lapse, which led to tries, it was a tremendous defensive effort and was a very pleasing way to grab an eighth win on the bounce.

You have to give heaps of credit to some of our young guys who had to put in a big effort, particularly after losing Darren Britt so early in the game.

The casualties keep coming and losing Darren, who has been outstanding all season, was a massive blow.

There were quite a few others carrying heavy knocks after the game - but that said I thought it was a fantastic, gritty display.

I have always said the silver lining about any injury situation is the opportunities it gives to younger players.

And I thought a lot of those youngsters stepped up a gear magnificently last Saturday night - they showed a real mental toughness. They had to - they had no choice.

Jon Wilkin had a magnificent game - and it was a just reward for his patience in the under 21s since his arrival.

His performance was a perfect way to respond after he was dragged off at Hull not so long back after missing a tackle.

He took his two tries magnificently and will definitely be one for the future - and one who really is genuinely multi-skilled. He can genuinely fill a number of positions. I mistakenly thought he lacked a yard, but his short strides are deceptive and he took his chances well.

It is not all gloom on the injury front - although I cannot rush back without risking further damage, my knee is getting better by the day.

And Paul Newlove cannot be that short off playing after recovering from his thumb injury.

This is a crucial part of the season - the top six places and the pecking order within that are all up for grabs.