Hull KR Falls to Wakefield as Hull FC Revives Playoff Aspirations
Hull KR suffered a disappointing defeat against Wakefield, losing 28-12 in a crucial Betfred Super League match at the sold-out DIY Kitchens Stadium. The loss leaves Hull KR still seeking to secure the top spot in the league as they prepare for their final regular-season game. Wakefield’s impressive performance, highlighted by a dominant first half, propels them closer to securing a playoff position.
Wakefield established an early lead, scoring 26 points before halftime. The opening try came just five minutes into the match from Jake Trueman, who capitalized on a fortunate rebound to score under the posts. As Hull KR struggled to find their rhythm, Wakefield’s Max Jowitt added a penalty after the visitors were caught offside.
The hosts continued to exploit Hull KR’s defensive weaknesses, doubling their lead on the 20-minute mark with a try from Mason Lino, who found a gap in the Rovers’ line with relative ease. Hull KR’s performance was marked by errors, including a missed interception that allowed Jowitt to score Wakefield’s third try. Despite a strong challenge from Tom Davies that prevented another score, Wakefield concluded a remarkable first half with a try from Cam Scott, bringing the halftime score to 26-0.
After the break, Hull KR showed more determination and quickly got on the scoreboard with a try from Arthur Mourgue. The conversion brought the score to 26-6. Wakefield responded with another successful kick from Jowitt, extending their lead to 28-6. Although Oliver Gildart scored a late try for Hull KR, the damage had been done, and the visitors’ hopes of clinching the title with a game to spare evaporated.
Hull FC Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive
In a contrasting match, Hull FC maintained their playoff aspirations with a convincing 34-2 win over Warrington at the MKM Stadium. They currently sit just one point behind Wakefield, thanks to their dominant performance against the Wolves.
Hull FC took control early, with tries from Lewis Martin, Denive Balmforth, Aidan Sezer, and Harvey Barron establishing a commanding lead by halftime. The first three tries occurred while Warrington’s Lachlan Fitzgibbon was in the sin bin. Zak Hardaker successfully converted the initial three tries, which came after Warrington had briefly led with a penalty from former Hull player Marc Sneyd.
The home side continued to dominate, with Jordan Lane scoring the fifth try, followed by Hardaker adding to the tally with a try of his own. Both of these tries were converted by Hardaker, solidifying Hull FC’s position as they head into the final round of matches.
As the Super League season approaches its conclusion, both Hull KR and Hull FC face critical challenges ahead. Hull KR must secure a victory against Warrington in their next game at Craven Park to ensure they enter the playoffs as the top seed, while Wakefield’s fate depends on their upcoming match against the bottom-placed Salford. A win there will guarantee them a playoff spot in their first season back in the top flight.
