Hull KR head coach Willie Peters intends to use the intensity of tonight’s Hull derby against Hull FC as a catalyst to revive his team’s faltering season. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. at the MKM Stadium.
Following a strong start to the campaign that saw them contend for the League Leaders’ Shield, Hull KR have suffered a downturn in form, losing three of their last four games. Their most recent defeat came on Saturday against Warrington, which has left them outside the Super League play-off positions. With just a few weeks remaining in the regular season, Peters acknowledges that his team’s recent performances have fallen short of expectations.
Despite these challenges, Peters remains optimistic that the emotional and physical nature of the local derby will inspire his players to elevate their form. The Robins have enjoyed dominance in recent encounters, having won the last eight Hull derbies. The coach believes this rivalry, known for its intensity rather than open free-flowing play, offers the ideal setting for his side to regain momentum.
“For me, this is going to be my last Hull derby, and I’ve absolutely loved being a part of it. It’s something special that I will miss,” Peters said. “It probably is the perfect game for us to get back on track because it will bring out the best in us. It means so much to so many people, and we have an opportunity to put some smiles on the faces of those who love this club dearly.”
While victory remains the objective, Peters emphasized the importance of overall team performance as a foundation for future success. “People are probably scratching their heads about why we’re performing the way we are, and rightly so. But we want to perform well, and winning the derby would certainly be a step in the right direction.”
In separate Super League news, Leigh full-back Bailey Hodgson faces the prospect of missing the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his elbow. The injury raises questions about his availability in the crucial closing stages of the campaign.