Hull FC Falls to St Helens as Coach John Cartwright Opens Up on Emotional Exit

Hull FC coach John Cartwright expressed his desire to remain in charge until the end of the season, despite the club's decision not to renew his contract. Cartwright's side lost 24-14 to St Helens in the Betfred Super League, but he received support from the home fans. The 60-year-old Australian coach revealed he felt 'betrayed and disrespected' by the club's decision and had not been given a clear reason for his dismissal. Cartwright has been in charge since 2024 and oversaw a significant improvement in results last season. He became emotional when discussing the reactions of his players to the news of his impending exit, saying it left him a 'blubbering mess.' The match saw Hull FC lead at the interval, but they fell away in the second half, with St Helens scoring late tries to secure victory. Cartwright is expected to hold further meetings with the club's owner, Andrew Thirkill, to discuss his future.