Quarter-final crackers on the road to Wembley

WE take another step on the road to Wembley this weekend, with eight clubs trying to keep their dreams alive in the quarter-finals of the Betfred Challenge Cup.

The June final is already looming large as some of rugby league’s big names eye some early silverware, while others look to end a long trophy drought.

One side who have tasted recent success are current holders Leigh Leopards, who continue their defence at teatime today against the side they beat in that historic final last August, Hull KR.

A golden-point drop goal by Lachlan Lam (right) bought the curtain down on that Wembley classic, and the Leythers will need their star man to be at his best again as they come into this one riddled with injuries.

Hull KR have had a stellar start to the Betfred Super League season, arriving on the back of six wins from eight games this season.

Also tonight, the 2022 runners-up Huddersfield Giants face a huge task at Catalans Dragons, who sit top of Super League.

Castleford Tigers go into their Sunday showdown against Wigan Warriors (11-8 favourites to win the Betfred Challenge Cup) on the back of their first league win of the season, but Craig Lingard will know that his side will have to improve again to beat Wigan, who have already lifted the Betfred World Club Challenge and are eyeing up an unprecedented quadruple.

Rounding off the weekend, Sam Burgess’ Warrington side, who have been building nicely into this season, will hope to continue their proud tradition in this competition against a St Helens side reeling from missing out on domestic silverware in 2023.