Hull prop Johnson can’t wait to take on brother in cup tie
Hull FC prop Paul Johnson is relishing the chance to go head-to-head with brother Tom for the first time when the Black and Whites face North Wales Crusaders next week.
The two teams have been drawn together in the fourth round of the Tetley’s Challenge Cup at the KC Stadium for an intriguing clash that could see the Black and Whites forward come up against his younger sibling, who plays for the Wrexham-based outfit.
And speaking to www.hullfc.com after this afternoon’s draw, the Airlie Birds front-rower says he can’t wait to square off against his brother in rugby league’s most famous competition.
“He’s a full back or centre and he’s a bit quicker than me! I’ve never played against him before so I’m really looking forward to it and I’m sure there will be a bit of banter between us,” said Johnson.
“We played together a few times when we were coming through the reserves at Saints, but it will be the first time we’ve actually faced each other.
“I still see quite a bit of home when I go to visit everybody back home, but it will be good for the family to come over and watch us both play, and he’ll probably end up staying over with me too.
“He’s already sent me a text saying that we’d drawn each other and that I best watch out so I’m sure we’ll have some fun with it, but hopefully we can make it a tough game for them.”
However, while most pundits will be predicting a comfortable Hull victory against the Championship 1 side, Johnson says the Black and Whites will be taking nothing for granted going into the knockout clash.
With their opponents currently sitting top of the league after an unbeaten start to the season in all competitions, the former Wakefield Players’ Player of the Year insists there will be no complacency in the FC camp.
“We can’t underestimate them as they are a good team. They’re coming on really well and they’ll be up for this game,” Johnson added.
“I’ve seen quite a bit of them over the past couple of years with Tom playing there and they’ve got some very good players.
“We will have to be on our game and prepare just like we would for a Super League match, but this is what the Challenge Cup is all about and we’re looking forward to it.”