KR go backwards in muddled thinking...
HIGHLIGHTED ROVERS HAVE WORK TO DO FOR 2021
Hull KR limped to a 34-4 defeat against Catalans Dragons on Friday night. Rovers made an encouraging start to the game at Stade Gilbert Brutus but faded badly as the hosts cruised to victory.
Here, we take a look at the major talking points.
Going backwards
The Robins rightly received plaudits for their early performances after the restart but those games against St Helens and Wigan seem like a lifetime ago.
The vibrancy has gone and Tony Smith’s side simply aren’t competing anymore, with the last four games over by half-time.
Rovers were without nine players in Perpignan and there is the issue of physical and mental fatigue during a challenging time, but it is a level playing field with every team in a similar situation.
Muddled thinking
From team selection to decisions on the field, KR’S brains are scrambled at the moment.
It is difficult with injuries and short turnarounds but Smith needs to settle on the core of his best side for 2021 or at the very least allow them to get used to a position.
The skill level against Catalans was way below Super League standard and the players seem hellbent on playing expansively regardless of the situation, with the likes of Weller Hauraki and Shaun Kenny-dowall kicking on the last summing up the muddled thinking.
Invaluable experience
Rowan Milnes was one of two debutants and it was a tough initiation against a strong side who dominated up front.
The young half-back showed some nice touches and laid on KR’S only try with a lovely delayed pass, which would have done him the world of good.
Teenager Will Tate was one of the better performers on only his third Super League appearance.
Both players can be safe in the knowledge that it doesn’t get any tougher than this.
One game closer
Another positive about Friday was that Rovers moved a step closer to the finish line and seeing the back of 2020.
With everything that is going on, completing the season would be an achievement in itself.
But supporters will want more to cheer about, particularly members as they weigh up what to do in 2021.
Must-win match
Next up for the Robins is a game against Salford Red Devils in Warrington tomorrow afternoon.
Ian Watson’s side will be unrecognisable as they plan for the Challenge Cup final four days later and it is an ideal opportunity to get back to winning ways.
KR will have to make changes themselves after a short turnaround but there can be no excuses if they fail to leave the Halliwell Jones Stadium with the win.