The wider picture
The 250th edition of the Hull Derby took place on April 3, 2026, at Sewell Group Craven Park, marking a significant milestone in the rivalry between Hull KR and Hull FC. This match was part of the Betfred Super League Rivals Round, a time when local pride and competitive spirit are at their peak. The atmosphere was electric as fans from both sides gathered to witness this historic clash, eager to see which team would come out on top.
In a fiercely contested match, Hull KR emerged victorious with a score of 24-6 against Hull FC. The victory not only highlighted Hull KR’s current form but also allowed them to climb to sixth place in the Super League table. Meanwhile, Hull FC’s disappointing performance saw them drop to ninth place, raising concerns among their supporters about the team’s trajectory this season.
The match featured several notable moments, including tries from Hull KR’s Jack Broadbent, Oliver Gildart, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess, who scored twice, showcasing their attacking prowess. Hull FC’s Tom Briscoe managed to score a try, providing a brief glimmer of hope for his team, but it was not enough to turn the tide. Additionally, a try from Lewis Martin was ruled out due to a knock-on, which added to the frustration for Hull FC.
Hull FC made three changes to their lineup for this match, with Aidan Sezer and Joe Batchelor returning from injury, and Cade Cust coming back from suspension to be named on the bench. However, the absence of key players like Will Pryce and Harvey Barron due to injuries was felt deeply, as Hull FC struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Hull KR side.
After the match, Hull FC coach John Cartwright expressed disappointment, stating, “At the end of the day we were just poor in the first half.” His counterpart, Hull KR’s Willie Peters, felt confident about his team’s performance, saying, “I thought in the first half we were in control.” The contrasting emotions reflected the high stakes of this derby, where every play can shift the momentum and morale of the teams involved.
Observers noted that the match was filled with multiple flashpoints, emphasizing the intensity of the rivalry. Jon Wilkin, a former player, commented on a controversial decision during the game, calling it “an outrageous decision for a number of reasons.” Such moments only serve to heighten the drama and passion that surrounds the Hull Derby.
Looking ahead, both teams will need to regroup and reassess their strategies as they continue their campaigns in the Super League. Hull KR will aim to build on this victory, while Hull FC must address their shortcomings if they hope to climb back up the table. As the season progresses, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how these two teams evolve in their quest for success.
As the dust settles on this historic derby, the community remains abuzz with discussions about the match and its implications for both teams. The rivalry between Hull KR and Hull FC is not just about the game; it is a celebration of local pride, passion, and the spirit of rugby league that unites the community.
