Hull KR Team of the Decade

Over in East Hull, survival is key for Hull Kingston Rovers, after a decade that has seen them experience relegation, promotion and a Challenge Cup Final.

The Robins began the decade rather well, consistently finishing mid-table but the latter half of it has seen them not only finish below arch-rivals Hull FC but also dancing with danger, even experiencing it first time.

However, they have since bounced back and look set to stay for the foreseeable future as we look back at players who have thrived for the Red and Whites for the last ten years.

 

Full-back – Shaun Briscoe

Once known as ‘Mr dependable’, Shaun Briscoe traded in the Airlie Birds for the Robins in 2008 and has arguably been their best full-back in the Super League era. In 2010 and 2011, Briscoe made 51 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 tries.

He has always been known for his excellent support play and defensive skills, something you expect from a potent full-back. His switch across the city still leaves many FC fans bewildered but it was KR who were left smiling after the move.

 

Wingers – Peter Fox & Craig Hall

Fox made 50 appearances between 2010 and 2011, scoring 23 tries as he continued his impressive form that saw him finish the 2000’s as an England international. He owed his pace, support play and ability to take the ball in to his success and similar attributes could be used to describe Hall.

The 31-year-old had two spells with the Robins, having made over 110 appearances, scoring over 400 points for the club. That and his ability to utilise himself in various positions in the back line kept the club flowing, leading them to multiple play-off runs and relegation survivals during his loan spell.

 

Centres – Kris Welham & Jake Webster

Two ‘old dogs’ still going in Kris Welham and Jake Webster. Another Hull-born player, Welham served nine seasons with the club until 2015, scoring 90 tries in Super League rugby in 166 appearances.

Webster was another who scored plenty of points in his five seasons for the club, with 34 tries in 95 appearances to his name. Both players have always been dangerous when it comes to attacking rugby, albeit with different styles but nevertheless highly effective.

 

Stand-off – Travis Burns

No doubts at all, former fans favourite Michael Dobson is named at scrum-half. The Australian arrived in 2008, lasting until 2013 before his return down under and who could forget his contribution. His excellent left foot provided an intricate kicking game, not to mention his 500 goals for the club too.

 

Props – Rhys Lovegrove & Adam Walker

Lovegrove served eight seasons for the club, making over 150 appearances between 2007 and 2014. He proved to be quite the asset, not only helping them avoid relegation but also aiding their quick rise up the table to become play-off contenders, owing to his hit-ups and ability to rotate between the forward positions.

Walker meanwhile, managed 87 appearances in Super League between 2013 and 2016 and put in plenty of hard graft during that time. His carries enabled the Robins to have some freedom in attack, something that has helped him catch the eye of rival clubs since.

 

Hooker – Josh Hodgson

England and Great Britain international Josh Hodgson is the obvious choice at hooker. Hodgson amassed over 130 appearances for the club, scoring over 35 tries. His spectacular form earned him attention from down under, where he is currently starring as captain of Canberra Raiders.

 

Second-row – Clint Newton & Ben Galea

The hard hitting Newton spent four seasons with the club before departing in 2011, scoring over 37 tries during his spell. Noted for his monster tackling, Newton could also cause problems in attack and such skill helped the Red and Whites to several big results.

Galea had five seasons with the side, making over 120 appearances and scoring over 33 tries. He was known for his neat side-step as well as ability to burst onto a short pass to perfection.

 

Loose-forward – Scott Murrell

‘Muzza’ by nickname, Murrell helped the Robins into Super League back in 2006 and spent a further five years before leaving in 2011. Originally a half-back, he switched to loose-forward during his time with the club and produced some outstanding skill with his kicking game and leadership.

Coach – Justin Morgan

Only two years served this decade but Australian Justin Morgan has been their most successful boss. True, Chris Chester guided them to Wembley but under Morgan KR played their best rugby, bringing together a strong club that almost got to Old Trafford at one stage. Though things did not work out between Morgan and the Robins’ hierarchy, he left behind a legacy that has not yet been topped by successors. Credit where it is due.