Ellis believes Radford makes Hull’s future bright

Hull FC forward Gareth Ellis believes that Lee Radford has laid the foundations for a dynasty of success at the club.

The Airlie Birds ended their Wembley hoodoo on Saturday, beating Warrington to win the Challenge Cup.

Ellis is pleased that the club stuck with Radford when he was going through difficult times, and he is optimistic that there is more success to come this season.

“It’s not been plain sailing for Radders,” he said.

“He’s had a tough time of it at times, and he’s now put together a squad that’s capable of anything.

“Hopefully we can build on this and go forward.

“There’s still a lot to play for.

“We’re playing for everything. We’re in a good position.

“We’ll enjoy this one, like we should! But there’s still a lot to play for, for us.

“Hopefully this will give us the confidence that we can do it on the big stage.

“Regardles of what happens this year, I think we’re in a position to build something.

“Long after I’ve gone, there’s an opportunity for the club to build and develop, and build a bit of a legacy, as Wigan have done in the past, and as Leeds have done in the past.

“Hopefully the club can put things in place to do that.”

Ellis also took the opportunity to hail the contribution of Hull hooker Danny Houghton to the victory.

Houghton pulled off a stunning last-gasp tackle on Wire’ Ben Currie, when it looked like the Wolves second row was certain to score a match-clinching try.

“I think I was the one who missed Joe Westerman in the first place!” Ellis smiled.

“So I was crossing my fingers and everything. But the effort that Danny Houghton showed to make that tackle and force an error, that deserves to win the Challenge Cup.

“It was an unbelievable effort from a bloke who wears his heart on his sleeve. He deserves it as much as anybody today.”