Hull KR claim derby victory over Hull FC

Hull KR bounced back from two consecutive defeats to defeat city rivals Hull FC 28-20 in a heated Betfred Super League derby on Thursday. The defending champions found themselves 12-0 down within 10 minutes as Hull FC scored tries through Joe Batchelor and Davy Litten.

However, the visitors regained composure and leveled the score by halftime with tries from Tom Amone and Arthur Mourgue, making it 12-12. In the second half, Jack Broadbent scored to put Hull KR ahead for the first time, and Joe Burgess added a stunning 95-meter intercept try. Jake Arthur reduced the deficit for Hull FC after a clever grubber kick from Zak Hardaker, but Jordan Dezaria powered over to seal the win for the Robins.

The match marked Willie Peters' final derby as Hull KR head coach, extending his side's winning run against Hull FC to nine games. For Hull FC, it was a sixth consecutive loss, leaving them with only one win in their last 11 matches. The club's owners had earlier in the week issued a statement taking responsibility for their poor season.

Hull FC interim coach Andy Last expressed disappointment but praised the fans' loyalty: "We had a great start, but in the second half Hull KR put us under pressure and forced uncharacteristic errors." Hull KR head coach Willie Peters was proud of his team's resilience: "Down 12-0, we showed we still have the fight."

Next week, Hull FC will face bottom-placed Huddersfield Giants, while Hull KR welcome Bradford Bulls.