SAINTS boss Justin Holbrook hailed the performance of two-try Australian full-back Lachlan Coote after a performance which saw his men extend their lead at the Super League summit to 10 points.

But he also had praise for makeshift number nine James Bentley's display at dummy half, while suggesting both James Roby and Aaron Smith could be available for next week's home derby with Wigan.

Coote was excellent on both sides of the ball, backing up his creativity and cutting edge in attack with some solid defence epitomised by his tackle on the strong running Ratu Naulago.

Holbrook said: "Coote was tremendous and I thought James Bentley was enormous for us.

"To step in at nine and play 80 minutes defend so well, I'm real happy for him.

"It's a tough place to come and play, with a hostile crowd, so to come away with a good win like that, I'm really happy.

"It was a really good performance from us. There are areas for improvement for sure but it was a dominant win.

"We know how dangerous an attacking side Hull are so to keep them scoreless for long periods of the game was fantastic."

He said that Joseph Paulo had picked up a calf injury - and that is why he went off after playing just 10 minutes.

Holbrook said: “Joseph Paulo had to come off as he hurt his calf so he only played around 10 minutes. We had typical knocks and even though it was a big score line it was a tough game as Hull are a real physical side."

But there was some good news on the hookers ahead of the derby clash with Wigan Warriors on Friday night.

“Hopefully Aaron Smith will be right next week he was just no good this week.

"Robes has a chance next week as well which is great. We will see how he is early next week but he is doing really well and is very keen to get out there which is great for us,” he said.