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

Outgoing Hull FC coach John Cartwright expressed his desire to remain in charge until the end of the season, despite being left emotionally drained by the club's decision not to renew his contract. The announcement was made last week, catching the 60-year-old Australian off guard. Cartwright revealed he felt 'betrayed and disrespected' amid reports that Hull FC is set to replace him with former England and Catalans Dragons head coach Steve McNamara. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Cartwright was cheered by home fans as his side lost 24-14 to St Helens in the Betfred Super League. Speaking to Sky Sports, Cartwright stated he had not been given a clear reason for his dismissal but wished to see out the season. He expressed his love for the team and believed they had the potential for a fantastic year. Following the match, an emotional Cartwright said he was unsure about his future, with meetings scheduled for the upcoming week to discuss his situation. Cartwright arrived at Hull FC on a two-year deal after the 2024 season and oversaw a significant improvement in results, with the team's win total rising to 13 in 2025. When asked about his players' reaction to the news, Cartwright said it had left him a 'blubbering mess.' The team led by six points at the interval but fell away, with late tries from Kyle Feldt and Harry Robertson securing victory for St Helens. The hosts had a fractured build-up, including a day off from training, but reacted well against a Saints side who were on a high after their dramatic Good Friday win over Wigan. Cartwright could only be proud of his players' performance in the early stages, with Logan Moy rewarding them with a 12th-minute opener. However, Saints responded well and wrapped up a spell of pressure by levelling when Jake Davies skipped through the home defence. The match ended with Saints stepping on the gas, Sailor sending Feldt over in the right corner to put the visitors back in the ascendency, before Robertson shrugged off Moy to wrap up the points.