Super League leaders Hull FC secured a semi-final berth in emphatic fashion with a 44-0 thrashing of Catalans Dragons, whose hopes of a top-four finish are fading fast.

After impressing for much of the season, Catalans have suffered an alarming dip in form - this latest defeat their eighth in nine matches in all competitions.

The Dragons remain four points behind fourth-placed St Helens, who have a game in hand, while Hull are certain to finish in the top four as they hold a 10-point advantage over Catalans with four matches to play.

Marc Sneyd was the star performer on Thursday as Hull turned on the style in attack, while keeping a clean sheet for the second week in succession.

Half-back Sneyd was one of six try-scorers for Hull, Mahe Fonua crossing twice, and also kicked eight goals on a miserable night for the visitors to the KCOM Stadium.

Hull now lead nearest rivals Warrington Wolves, who host Castleford Tigers on Saturday, by three points.