"KR near top spot after derby win over Hull FC"

Hull KR Edge Closer to League Leaders’ Shield After Defeating Hull FC

Hull KR took a significant step toward securing their first League Leaders’ Shield by defeating arch-rivals Hull FC for the sixth consecutive time, further solidifying their place at the top of the table.

Barring an improbable turn of events, Willie Peters’ side is now almost certain to finish the regular season in first place—a milestone they have never achieved in the summer era. Their consistent performance this year was once again evident in a heated and fiercely contested derby with major implications for both clubs.

With this win, Rovers move four points clear of second-placed Wigan with two games remaining, and their points difference offers an additional advantage over the defending champions. While one more victory guarantees the title, they are effectively already in pole position.

Having also claimed the Challenge Cup earlier this summer, Hull KR—who had not secured a major trophy in 40 years prior to this season—now stand on the brink of achieving two trophies in quick succession, putting them within reach of an unprecedented treble.

For Hull FC, this loss keeps them outside the playoff spots with only two matches left, meaning they may need wins in both to secure a top-six finish. They trailed by four points at halftime after Noah Booth crossed the line following an impressive attacking move by Rovers.

Shortly after the break, Jez Litten extended the lead with another well-taken try, creating clear separation between the two sides. Hull struggled to capitalize on their opportunities and rarely tested Rovers’ defense effectively.

By the time Tom Briscoe scored Hull’s solitary try with nine minutes left, the outcome was already settled, especially after Jack Broadbent struck for Rovers to widen the margin further. Tom Davies’ late try added an exclamation mark to a convincing victory for the league leaders.