Hull KR strengthened their grip on the Super League summit with a hard-fought 10-6 victory over reigning champions Wigan, extending their lead at the top to six points with just five rounds of the regular season remaining.
Already Challenge Cup winners this year, the Robins are now on course to add a maiden League Leaders’ Shield to their growing list of honours. Their disciplined display against the Warriors underlined why many see them as favourites for the Grand Final at Old Trafford this October.
Hull KR controlled the opening stages, building pressure with strong carries and aggressive defence. Their dominance was rewarded midway through the first half when Dean Hadley powered over for the only try of the match. Rhyse Martin added the conversion before slotting a penalty goal on the stroke of half-time, giving the visitors an 8-0 cushion.
Wigan, uncharacteristically flat for much of the contest, struggled to break through a red wall of determined defenders. Even with home advantage, they rarely looked like finding their rhythm. When Martin extended the Robins’ lead to 10-0 early in the second half, it appeared as though Wigan might be shut out on their own ground.
The Warriors eventually found some joy four minutes from time when Adam Keighran crossed after a rare handling error from Hull KR. He converted his own try to reduce the deficit to four points and set up a tense finale. However, the visitors’ defensive resolve held firm in the closing moments, sealing a result that could prove pivotal in the title race.
For Hull KR, this win was as much psychological as it was practical. To beat the defending champions away from home in such a manner sends a strong message to their rivals. Their ability to grind out results through discipline, patience, and defensive steel marks them as the competition’s benchmark.
With a six-point buffer at the top and momentum firmly behind them, Hull KR’s focus now shifts to managing the final stretch of the season and ensuring they carry this form into the playoffs. For Wigan, meanwhile, the challenge is clear: they must rediscover their sharpness quickly if they are to mount a credible defence of their crown.
Tags: Hull KR, Wigan Warriors, Super League, Rugby League, Playoffs, League Leaders’ Shield
