LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Hull Kingston Rovers exacted revenge on Leigh in a thrilling Super League playoff match, ending the Leopards' dreams of advancing further in the competition.
The Robins will now face either Wigan or Catalans in the semi-finals next weekend, depending on the outcome of Saturday's eliminator between St Helens and Warrington.
Hull KR emerged as confident victors, bouncing back from their defeat to Leigh in the Challenge Cup final just weeks ago.
The tide turned decisively in Hull KR's favor with three tries in the ten minutes before and after half-time.
Jack Walker, Ryan Hall, and Sam Luckley scored the crucial tries that put the hosts in control.
Although Josh Charnley's try briefly threatened a Leigh comeback, the Robins held their nerve impressively.
Coach Willie Peters expressed his pride in the team's performance, stating, "It was going to go one way or the other after the cup final and this shows who we are as a club." Leigh's first season back in Super League has been remarkable, highlighted by their cup triumph in August.
However, Leigh's season took a downturn after their Wembley victory, and they struggled against the raucous atmosphere in east Hull.
Coach Adrian Lam admitted frustration at not seeing the true identity of his team but praised their determination, saying, "They never gave up and I'm proud of them for that."