Hull KR rock into first Super League Grand final after holding off Warrington

If you've ever traveled to Hull KR, you've likely spotted two distinct and purposeful street names along your route on the M62, leading to the A63 and through the heart of the city.

To start, we have Clive Sullivan Way, which honors the iconic former player of Hull FC and Hull KR. He made history as the first black captain of Great Britain across all sports.

As you make your way through the heart of Hull, you'll find yourself on Roger Millward Way. This street is named after a legendary figure who is deeply connected to Hull KR; he is regarded as their finest player. His impact on the club was so significant that they decided to retire the No. 6 jersey in his honor.

It might be a bit of a leap to say that a victory for the Robins in the Super League Grand Final next Saturday would ensure one of the players leaves a lasting legacy. However, considering the club's long wait for success—almost 40 years—it's very likely that a player who leads the team to victory would be remembered just as fondly.

Since 1985, Rovers have been the lesser team compared to their city rivals. However, things are shifting in Hull, and now the Robins are the dominant team along the Humber. Just four years back, they were at the bottom of the Super League, but they have since become one of the top teams in the league. Still, there is one blemish on their record.

For nearly four decades, they have not managed to secure a significant trophy. They have come close, with last year’s Challenge Cup final being a recent disappointment. However, this might be their chance, as they triumphed in a thrilling playoff semi-final that earned them a spot at Old Trafford for the first time, where they will face either Wigan or Leigh.

Doubters of the Rovers might have thought they would face challenges in this match, considering they were playing at home and were favored against a Warrington team that has improved significantly under Sam Burgess this season. However, the Rovers displayed complete confidence during the first half, taking control of the game and establishing a 10-0 lead with tries from James Batchelor and Joe Burgess.

After the break, Wire made a comeback. Matty Ashton scored two tries, putting them right back in the game and causing some anxiety among the fans at Craven Park. However, Josh Thewlis's failure to convert either try meant that Rovers maintained a narrow two-point advantage, which they managed to hold onto, igniting joyous celebrations.

“They really had to push themselves, and I’m extremely proud of them, but this isn't the end,” said their coach, Willie Peters. “We'll take a moment to celebrate this victory, then refocus and aim for an even greater achievement next week.”

This club has faced significant challenges in recent years, and if it weren't for the ongoing support from their owner, Neil Hudgell, they might not be experiencing this success today.

Peters plans to have Hudgell address the players before their match at Old Trafford to reinforce this point. His team performed exceptionally well in the first half, with Batchelor scoring the first try. Burgess then added a try of his own under somewhat questionable circumstances, as it seemed he might have been held up just over the line. The play was reviewed by the video referee after the on-field call of a try, leaving little opportunity to change the decision. Sam Burgess expressed his frustration, stating, “He looked at it 10 times. If it takes that long to review, how can you rule it a try?”

After halftime, his team fought bravely, thanks to two impressive solo goals from Ashton that pulled the Wolves closer to their opponents. However, Thewlis' two missed opportunities prevented them from taking the lead.

The last quarter was full of excitement and suspense. The Rovers made several mistakes in their own territory, making you wonder if they were about to face the same problems as before. However, as Peters mentioned, this team is tougher than that.

Craven Park is adorned with images from the past, showcasing legends like Sullivan and Millward in every direction. Now, it’s the opportunity for the class of 2024 to make their mark in history.