Hull KR head coach Willie Peters has highlighted the significance of their upcoming match against Castleford Tigers as the Super League season nears its conclusion. The Robins are set to visit West Yorkshire this evening, entering the contest as strong favourites following Castleford’s recent internal upheaval, which saw head coach Ryan Carr relieved of his duties. With seven games remaining in the regular season and an additional fixture in hand against Warrington Wolves, Peters believes securing victories now could solidify Hull KR’s bid to defend their Super League title.
“We’re in a position where we control our own destiny to get into the finals,” Peters said. He cautioned, however, that maintaining focus on each match individually remains paramount. “You take it week by week. You tick each game off and make sure you get the two points — it’s important to get those wins.”
Hull KR’s next opponents, Castleford, have struggled amid recent management changes, but Peters stressed the need to respect a side that remains competitive, especially on home turf. “They are playing really well at home and they’re well coached. They know exactly what each other’s role is and how they contribute to each other. We’re similar. We showed it on the weekend. We had every one of our 17 players really own their job. It’s a really good contest that we’re looking forward to and another good challenge and test for us.”
Elsewhere, York Knights are preparing for continued participation in the Super League despite uncertainties surrounding their standing. Having been promoted to the top division ahead of the 2026 season, the Knights have recorded notable victories, including a recent win over St Helens. However, relegation remains a possibility due to their projected low IMG ranking, which is expected to place them alongside Toulouse Olympique near the bottom of the table.
Mark Applegarth, York’s head coach, affirmed the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level regardless of the uncertainty. “We’re planning as though we’re in Super League,” Applegarth said. “We’ll keep quiet for the time being, but what have we got left, six games? I’m full steam ahead as if we’re in Super League.”
At the top of the standings, Leeds Rhinos continue to press for the League Leaders’ Shield and a home semi-final advantage. Rhinos coach Richard Arthur acknowledged the tight nature of the competition with six rounds remaining. “There are a lot of things still to happen,” he said. “You can see how tight it is at the top of the competition. We’ll be disappointed if we don’t give ourselves every opportunity to be in the top two. We’ve worked hard to get here, but we’re under no illusion it’s going to be even harder to stay here.”
Arthur underscored the importance of maintaining momentum and focus with the season’s critical phase underway. “Every week is important for us. Every time you win a game, the next week becomes even more important to make sure you keep that momentum. It’s then even harder to stay there, but we know we need to keep working hard.”