Hull KR performed brilliantly on the weekend to beat Wigan Warriors and make it to their first Challenge Cup Final since 2015, one in which they lost by a record margin of 50-0 to Leeds Rhinos.
Rovers will be hoping that’s not the case again and they’ll certainly head into the final with big expectations as Willie Peters men have been one of the standout sides this season.
They flirted with the top of the table earlier in the season, peaking at second place, but a poor run of form saw them slide out of the play-offs.
Sunday’s hero brad Schneider restored their Super League form with a win over Leeds Rhinos at Headingley by slotting a golden point drop goal, much like on Sunday.
As such he’s become somewhat of a cult hero in the city already having played just two games and he’s set to feature again on Friday when Rovers host Castleford Tigers at Craven Park.
He’s twice partnered Rowan Milnes in the halves with Sunday seeing playmaker Mikey Lewis drop to full-back.
Initially benched, Lewis came into the fray when Ryan Hall pulled out of the warm-up with a calf issue, something that the veteran hasn’t recovered from.
As such Rovers will likely line up in very similar fashion, although Jack Walker is back after being cup-tied previously.
Your 21-man squad to face the Tigers! 👊 💪#UpTheRobins🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/n3OCHqlDlW
— Hull KR (@hullkrofficial) July 26, 2023
As for Castleford they’ve made plenty of changes including their new signing Billy Tsikrikas and former Tiger Alex Foster who could make their debut and second debut for the club on Friday night.
There’s an injury crisis in the backs, and they look even thinner there with the release of Bureta Faraimo and Mahe Fonua.
Gareth Widdop misses out but there is a boost in the return of Greg Eden who could slot in at full-back.
Other returnees are Nathan Massey, Suaia Matagi, and George Lawler who are all back in contention.
Riley Dean, on loan from Warrington, is named once again, but new recruit Liam Horne the PNG hooker doesn’t feature.
💥 Tigers 21-man squad to take on KR
Full squad info ⤵️@GeoShieldUK • #COYF
— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) July 26, 2023
