YORK flier Tom Lineham could not contain his delight after helping Hull FC into the Tetley’s Challenge Cup final.
The Black and Whites beat favourites Warrington 16-12 in a thrilling semi-final at Huddersfield’s John Smith Stadium.
A length-of-the-field breakaway try from winger Lineham had got them going after falling 8-0 behind.
Said the ex-York College student: “These are what you play for, these occasions. It was a great match and it had a bit of everything.”
Lineham was a junior at York RUFC before switching to the 13-a-side code and beginning his professional career with York City Knights. He started this season back in Knights colours on dual-registration before breaking into the Hull team and keeping his place.
“It’s been an unbelievable year,” said the 21-year-old, having come back from a broken leg last year. “I came in (to the team) and got my chance. It’s a special club and this is what you play for.”
A Lineham mistake in the dying seconds had given Warrington one last chance to find a winner, but the Airlie Birds held out to spark wild celebrations.
Hull, cup winners in 2005, will meet Wigan in this year’s final, the Warriors having hammered London Broncos 70-0 on Saturday.
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