Hull KR ends 40-year Challenge Cup drought
- Hull KR clinched their first Challenge Cup title since 1980 at Wembley Stadium against Warrington Wolves.
- The match was marked by a late try from Tom Davies and a crucial conversion by Mikey Lewis.
- The victory reflected Hull KR's resilience and character, as they celebrated a long-awaited achievement.
In England, Hull KR clinched their first Challenge Cup title in 40 years on June 7, 2025, at Wembley Stadium. The match against Warrington Wolves was tightly contested, with Hull KR securing a late victory, concluding the game with a score of 8-6. The game turned in favor of Hull KR when Tom Davies scored a late try, following an error from Warrington's Aaron Lindop. Mikey Lewis, not typically a first-choice kicker, successfully converted the try, igniting celebrations among Hull KR supporters. Head coach Willie Peters expressed pride in his team's grit and resilience during a challenging contest. Despite being on the back foot for long stretches, Hull KR showcased their ability to withstand pressure and find a way to victory, distinguishing their performance in a Cup final. Peters emphasized that although it wasn't their best display, overcoming adversity was integral to winning. The win reflects the character of Hull KR players, who embrace difficulty and demonstrate toughness, traits inherent to their local identity. Warrington's head coach, Sam Burgess, lamented the narrow loss and felt that his team played well enough to win. Despite controlling the match and having a lead earlier on, they failed to capitalize fully on their dominance, ultimately succumbing to late-game misfortune. The match showcased moments where Warrington showed skill, but ultimately, it wasn't enough to secure victory. Burgess praised his players' efforts and suggested that they would learn from the pain of defeat as they move into the remainder of the season, aiming to transform this experience into motivation for their playoff ambitions. Fans and analysts alike highlighted key players from both sides, notably Marc Sneyd of Hull KR, who demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the match, earning him the Lance Todd Trophy for his performance. The result is expected to have repercussions for both clubs as they strategize for their upcoming games in the season, with Hull KR celebrating a significant achievement and Warrington recalibrating their efforts to improve future performances.