WOLVES’ Academy coach Gary Chambers believes his young charges are making positive strides despite falling to their third defeat in four games on Saturday.

Wolves’ under 19s side were 12 points to the good and cruising towards their second victory of the Academy season at the halfway stage against Hull, but ended up losing 36-28 after the hosts staged a spirited revival.

Head coach Chambers said: “It really was a game of two halves; we were unable to maintain the momentum that we had in the first half and Hull FC capitalised on our errors.

“The first half showed the advances we are making as a group but conversely the second half highlighted that there are still areas for us to improve on.

“Every week is a big learning curve for the young lads and we are making positive advances each game.

“Most of the squad have now had a taste of action at this level and that will now help them to realise what they are preparing for.

“I cannot fault the effort or commitment of the players in any game so far and we will continue to get better each week.”

But while Chambers’ young side will be disappointed to let their advantage slip after controlling the first half, Chambers pointed to individual performances that bode well for their match against Hull KR at Wilderspool Stadium on Saturday, kick off 2pm.

“Joe Philbin was a powerhouse today, running great lines and causing all sorts of problems for the Hull FC defence,” he said.

“Jacque Peet continued his impressive form with another hard working display, Ryan Maneely was very busy from acting half back and directed us very well and Tom Battye had a very good game on the wing.

“We will now work hard and get ourselves ready to entertain Hull Kingston Rovers, this has been switched from Hull KR and we will now travel there in July instead.”