Jake Connor relishing learning under new boss Brett Hodgson
Hull FC full-back Jake Connor is delighted to be continuing his development under head coach Brett Hodgson after another stellar performance helped extend the Airlie Birds’ winning start to the new season.
Connor was instrumental with a try assist, two goals and a drop goal to help his side overcome Salford 35-4.
The 26-year-old’s superb start to 2021 has coincided with the arrival of Australian Hodgson, a fellow full-back and recipient of the 2009 Man of Steel award during his time at Huddersfield.
Hodgson spent two seasons in West Yorkshire and three more at Warrington, having amassed more than 200 NRL appearances before moving from Down Under.
READ: Brett Hodgson believes Jake Connor should be in England frame
Speaking about Hodgson after their comfortable win, Connor said: “He’s a new coach to this club, and it probably suits me more with him being a full-back and former Man of Steel winner.
“I can’t learn from anyone better. He’s giving me tips and it seems to be working.”
Hull FC were able to record back-to-back wins despite losing key creative influences Josh Reynolds and Marc Sneyd before the hour mark. Front-rower Ligi Sao also left the field with an ankle strain.
Their withdrawal forced Connor into the halves, and he admitted post-match that he had only ever played in one position consecutively for five matches throughout his career.
It remains to be seen whether Connor appears in Challenge Cup action against Featherstone next week after his side drew level at the top of Super League.
“I’ve said before that consistency is the key for us, backing up the performance [from] last week,” he added.
“We did just that, and our defence is getting better each week. The boys are working harder for each other and it’s great to play off the back of.
“[Last season] we had that perception from the outside that we weren’t consistent. If we can keep that consistency throughout, we’ll be in for a good year.”
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