Derek Beaumont reacts as Challenge Cup holders Leigh Leopards crash out

Challenge Cup holders Leigh Leopards were dethroned today as Hull KR defeated Adrian Lam’s side with owner Derek Beaumont taking to social media in the aftermath of the game.

The clash at Craven Park was a repeat of last year’s final and whilst the final scoreline of 26-14 suggests it was far less close than the dramatic golden point game of 2023, it was still a very competitive match.

Hull KR went ahead but Leigh Leopards were the side with more to cheer about as they went into the sheds, leading 8-4 and having punished a sloppy Robins side.

The second half saw a completely different Hull KR though and Leigh Leopards couldn’t stick with them early on but a disallowed Tyrone May try proved the catalyst.

Chris Kendall ruled it ‘no try’ on-field, a decision that was supported by video referee Tom Grant and on the resulting set the Leopards managed to score via Umyla Hanley which represented a key 12-point swing.

With the scores at 16-14, Niall Evalds continued his strong form to score once again before a last-minute Elliot Minchella score made the scoreline look harsh on the holders.

Leopards owner Derek Beaumont has now taken to social media to have his say on the loss.

What Derek Beaumont had to say after Challenge Cup defeat?

Several of the social media interactions that Derek Beaumont engages in tend to be controversial in their nature with the Leopards’ boss calling for major change in the game earlier this year following his side’s loss to Leeds Rhinos.

However, today wasn’t one of those occasions with Beaumont posting on his X account a congratulatory message to the Robins in wish he wished them all the best.

Derek Beaumont posted: “Well played @hullkrofficial best of luck in going one better than last year and hope you have as an amazing time as I have had since 12th August 23 if you do! Enjoy your night.”

Well played @hullkrofficial best of luck in going one better than last year and hope you have as an amazing time as I have had since 12th August 23 if you do! Enjoy your night 🏉🏆

— Derek John Beaumont (@derek_beaumont) April 13, 2024

As for the travelling Leopards fans who have been so iconic in the Challenge Cup these past two years with their leopard-print bucket hats, their owner had another message.

“Big thanks to all our @LeighLeopardsRL who made the journey to support the boys. Your effort and commitment is really appreciated. We will keep working hard.”

Leigh will now look to focus on their Super League campaign with the club currently sat on just one win through six games, and they’ll also likely be cheering for their neighbours Wigan Warriors to lose tomorrow so that the two teams can play their game in hand against each other when the semi-finals take place, as opposed to it being kicked further down the road.