The wider picture
The latest installment of the Hull Derby, held on April 3, 2026, at Sewell Group Craven Park, marked a significant milestone as it was the 250th edition of this storied rivalry. The match was part of the Betfred Super League Rivals Round, a context that heightened the stakes for both teams. Hull KR entered the game with a strong resolve, aiming to solidify their position in the league, while Hull FC sought to bounce back from recent setbacks.
In a commanding performance, Hull KR emerged victorious with a score of 24-6, showcasing their prowess on the field. The match began with Hull KR establishing an early lead, scoring 10 points within the opening quarter. Their tries came from Jack Broadbent, Oliver Gildart, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess, with Burgess notably scoring twice, further emphasizing his impact in this crucial derby.
Hull FC, despite their efforts, struggled to find their rhythm. The team made three changes to their lineup, with Aidan Sezer and Joe Batchelor returning from injury, and Cade Cust coming back from suspension to be named on the bench. However, their performance was hampered by injuries to key players such as Will Pryce and Harvey Barron, which left them at a disadvantage.
Tom Briscoe managed to score a try for Hull FC, cutting Hull KR’s lead to 10-4 at one point, but the momentum did not last. A crucial moment came when Lewis Martin’s try was ruled out for a knock-on, a decision that drew criticism from observers. Jon Wilkin, a former player turned commentator, described the ruling as “an outrageous decision for a number of reasons,” highlighting the contentious nature of the match.
Hull FC’s head coach, John Cartwright, reflected on the game, acknowledging that his team was “just poor in the first half.” His counterpart, Willie Peters, expressed a contrasting sentiment, stating, “I thought in the first half we were in control,” indicating the differing perspectives on the match’s dynamics. Cartwright further emphasized the need for better discipline and performance against a team of Hull KR’s caliber, noting, “Our discipline, our errors. They are the world champions and we have to be near our best.”
The outcome of this derby had significant implications for both teams in the Super League standings. With this victory, Hull KR climbed to sixth place, while Hull FC dropped to ninth, a position that reflects their ongoing struggles this season. The match was fiercely contested, featuring multiple flashpoints that underscored the rivalry’s intensity.
As the season progresses, both teams will need to reassess their strategies and player fitness. Hull KR will look to build on this momentum, while Hull FC must regroup and address their inconsistencies. Observers are keenly watching how each team adapts in the coming weeks, with implications for playoff positions looming large.