Hull KR Reeling After Shock Super League Opening Loss to York Knights
The Super League 2026 season kicked off with a seismic upset as newly promoted York Knights stunned reigning champions Hull KR, securing a nail-biting 19-18 victory. This dramatic result throws a significant curveball for Hull KR as they prepare to face the formidable Brisbane Broncos in the upcoming World Club Challenge.
A Costly 'Dumb Play' and a Shifting Momentum
Hull KR, fresh off a club-record demolition of Lock Lane the previous week, found themselves in a fierce contest against the Knights. The game hung in the balance until a pivotal moment in the second half. With Hull KR holding an 18-6 lead and just 15 minutes remaining, five-eighth Mikey Lewis was sin-binned for a 'dumb' act – tripping York captain Liam Harris. This indiscipline proved costly, allowing the Knights to build momentum and claw their way back into the match.
Former NRL playmaker Ata Hingano, now turning out for York, emerged as the match-winner. After tries from Sam Wood and Scott Galeano brought the Knights level, Hingano slotted a clutch field goal in the 76th minute to seal a historic victory for his side. The performance was lauded by commentator Sam Tomkins as "unbelievable," highlighting the grit and determination of the underdog.
Coach's Disappointment and Player Reactions
Hull KR coach Will Peters did not mince his words, stating that Lewis had "let his teammates down" and "needs to learn" from his lapse in judgment. "You make your bed, you've got to lie in it," Peters commented, expressing frustration while acknowledging the team's overall ill-discipline. "We didn't play bad in the first half, it was ill-discipline. We put on a lot of pressure with the ball but couldn't score the try, which is OK, if was what we did off the back of it – a lot of penalties."
York Knights' player of the match, Paul McShane, spoke of the win being "built on hard work and togetherness." He added, "We’ve made history being part of Super League. To get our first win is amazing for the club. We got the result today but it’s a long season, but we just want to keep competing and be respected." York head coach Mark Applegarth echoed this sentiment, revealing his half-time message was simple: "The pressure was not on us, it was all on Hull KR."
World Club Challenge Implications
The shock loss serves as a stark reality check for Hull KR ahead of their highly anticipated World Club Challenge clash against the NRL champions, the Brisbane Broncos. The game, scheduled for 6:30 am AEDT next Friday, will be broadcast live and exclusive on Fox League and Kayo Sports. The performance against York, particularly the ill-discipline and inability to close out a lead, will be a major concern for coach Peters and his coaching staff.
While the victory against Lock Lane showcased Hull KR's attacking prowess, the encounter with York highlighted vulnerabilities that the Brisbane Broncos, known for their clinical execution and relentless pressure, will undoubtedly look to exploit. The suspension risk for Mikey Lewis, a key playmaker, further complicates matters for Hull KR as they aim to upset the Australian champions on their home turf.
What's Next for Hull KR and the World Club Challenge?
The focus now shifts squarely to the World Club Challenge. Hull KR will need to regroup quickly, address the disciplinary issues, and rediscover their winning form. The World Club Challenge is a prestigious honour, and this opening Super League stumble will undoubtedly fuel their determination to prove their mettle against one of the best teams in the world. Rugby league fans Down Under and in the UK will be eagerly anticipating how Hull KR responds to this unexpected setback on the global stage.
