Hull FC endured a 24-14 loss to St Helens in their latest Betfred Super League encounter, a result that left the club’s supporters chanting for their coach despite the disappointment on the field. John Cartwright, the outgoing head coach, used the post‑match interview to convey his mixed emotions about the club’s decision to part ways with him at the end of the season. He said he feels "betrayed and disrespected" after learning that Hull’s hierarchy had already identified former England and Catalans Dragons boss Steve McNamara as his successor. Cartwright, a 60‑year‑old Australian, admitted that the news had reduced him to what he described as a "blubbering mess," but he also expressed a strong desire to remain in his role until the campaign concludes in October.
The announcement that his contract would not be renewed came as a surprise to Cartwright, who had only taken the reins on a two‑year deal after the 2024 season. In his first full year, he oversaw a dramatic turnaround, lifting the team's win tally from three victories the previous year to thirteen wins in 2025. This improvement raised expectations among fans and the board alike, making the decision to replace him all the more contentious. Cartwright told Sky Sports that he had not been given a clear rationale for the club’s move, only vague references to "a few little things" that would be discussed in upcoming meetings with owner Andrew Thirkill.
Despite the turmoil off the pitch, Cartwright praised the squad’s professionalism. He noted that after the players learned of his impending exit, they quickly refocused on training, delivering three high‑quality sessions without letting the news affect their preparation. The team started the match strongly, with Logan Moy opening the scoring in the 12th minute and Zak Hardaker adding two successful penalty kicks to extend the lead. However, St Helens fought back, equalising through Jake Davies and then taking the lead after a series of disciplined defensive stands and a decisive try from Kyle Feldt in the second half.
The defeat was compounded by a recent slump in form, as Hull had suffered a heavy derby loss to Hull KR two weeks earlier. The emotional weight of the coaching change, combined with a brief pause in training to allow the squad to absorb the news, likely contributed to the dip in performance.
Nevertheless, Cartwright remained proud of his players’ resilience. He highlighted the early phases of the game, where the team displayed cohesion and tactical awareness, and he lauded the contributions of emerging talents such as Sam Lisone and Amir Bourouh, who capitalised on gaps in the opposition’s defence.
When asked whether the St Helens fixture would be his final appearance in charge, Cartwright responded cautiously, "Not at the moment, not as I stand here." He admitted that two weeks prior he would not have imagined being in this position and that the future remained uncertain. He promised to let the "dust settle" before making any definitive statements, noting that he had several meetings scheduled for the coming week that would clarify his next steps. Cartwright also addressed the broader context of the season.
He reminded observers that the Super League runs until October, giving Hull ample time to regroup and potentially finish the campaign on a high note. He expressed confidence that the squad could still achieve a "fantastic year" if they maintain focus and treat each upcoming match as a business‑as‑usual affair. The coach’s emotional honesty resonated with the home crowd, who gave him a standing ovation despite the loss, chanting his name as a sign of support.
Looking ahead, Hull FC will need to navigate the remainder of the season without the certainty of leadership that a permanent head coach provides. The potential arrival of Steve McNamara looms, and his experience with England and Catalans Dragons could bring a new tactical approach.
In the meantime, the players must continue to execute the game plan laid out by Cartwright, who has instilled a strong bond within the group. The club’s management will have to balance the immediate need for stability with the longer‑term vision of rebuilding the squad under new direction. The match itself offered a vivid illustration of the fine margins that often decide Super League outcomes. After a tightly contested first half that ended 14‑14, the second half saw St Helens seize momentum, with Tristan Sailor’s successful kicks and a crucial try by Harry Robertson that sealed the victory.
Hull’s defense, though resolute early on, eventually faltered under sustained pressure, allowing the Saints to exploit gaps and convert opportunities. In summary, John Cartwright’s post‑match comments painted a picture of a coach caught between personal disappointment and professional commitment.
He remains determined to see the season through, hoping to leave Hull FC on a positive note despite the club’s decision to move on. The team’s performance, while ultimately falling short, demonstrated flashes of the progress made under Cartwright’s tenure, offering a foundation on which the incoming coach can build. The next few weeks will be crucial for Hull FC as they aim to solidify their league position, manage the transition in leadership, and perhaps finish the season with a sense of achievement that honors the work done by Cartwright and his players.