The wider picture
The recent match between Hull KR and Hull FC marked a significant milestone in rugby league history as it was the 250th edition of the Hull Derby. This rivalry has been a staple of the Betfred Super League, and the latest encounter took place on April 3, 2026, at Sewell Group Craven Park. The match was characterized by its intensity, with both teams vying for crucial points in the league standings.
Hull KR emerged victorious with a decisive 24-6 scoreline, showcasing their dominance early in the game. They established a 10-point lead within the opening quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the match. The tries for Hull KR were scored by Jack Broadbent, Oliver Gildart, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess, with Burgess notably contributing two tries to the team’s total.
On the other hand, Hull FC made several adjustments to their lineup, with three changes ahead of the match. Aidan Sezer and Joe Batchelor returned from injury, while Cade Cust was named on the bench after serving a suspension. Despite these reinforcements, Hull FC struggled to find their rhythm, particularly in the first half, which was described as a poor performance by their coach, John Cartwright.
Hull FC’s Tom Briscoe did manage to score a try, which briefly cut the deficit to four points, but it was not enough to turn the tide. Additionally, a potential try from Lewis Martin was ruled out due to a knock-on, further compounding Hull FC’s frustrations during the match.
The match was not without its controversies, with former player Jon Wilkin criticizing a decision made during the game as “an outrageous decision for a number of reasons.” This sentiment reflects the high stakes and emotions that accompany such a historic rivalry.
As a result of this match, Hull KR climbed to sixth place in the Super League table, while Hull FC dropped to ninth. The implications of this match are significant for both teams as they continue to navigate the challenges of the season.
Looking ahead, observers are keen to see how both teams will respond in their upcoming fixtures. Hull KR will aim to build on this momentum, while Hull FC will need to address their inconsistencies to regain their footing in the league. The rivalry between these two clubs remains fierce, and fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the future.
