Rugby League: Wigan Warriors Dominate Hull KR in Challenge Cup Clash
On Saturday, Hull KR faced off against Wigan Warriors in a rematch of last season’s Challenge Cup semi-final. However, unlike the tight affair of 2023, Wigan’s Matt Peet-led side has taken an early commanding lead in this year’s encounter.
In the 2023 semi-final, a late Brad Schneider drop goal had sent Hull KR to Wembley for the first time since 2015. Sadly for the Robins, they suffered another defeat in the big game, with Lachlan Lam’s decisive drop goal writing his name into the history books.
Regrettably, it appears Hull KR’s Challenge Cup dreams may not materialize this season. Approaching halftime, the Robins trail Wigan 18-0, and the second try has sparked fury from Hull KR boss Willie Peters.
Wigan’s Harry Sunderland Award winner from 2023, their number four, opened the scoring in the fourth minute, exposing Hull KR’s right-edge defense. The Robins struggled to gain a foothold in the game early on, consistently surrendering possession to the Warriors.
The controversy arose after a high bomb from Tyrone May saw Jai Field catch the ball near his goal line. Referee Chris Kendall awarded a penalty to Wigan, much to the dismay of Peters, who stormed down the touchline to confront the fourth official. It remains unclear if the penalty was due to a Hull KR player tackling Field after he caught the ball, or another infringement.
Nonetheless, the penalty provided Wigan with excellent field position, and they capitalized, with Abbas Miski scoring in the corner. In the aftermath, the Hull KR head coach continued to voice his strong disagreement with the officials’ decisions.
Since that try, Wigan has added three more scores, including a brace from Miski and tries from Junior Nsemba and Harry Smith. The Super League champions now lead 24-0 and appear poised to secure a spot in the Challenge Cup Final.
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