Hull KR vs Wakefield Trinity: Team news, match preview and score prediction

The high flying Robins are looking to keep the pressure up on the top four with a win over Wakefield as they build momentum towards a Challenge Cup semi-final against Huddersfield.

Wakefield meanwhile have lost all their momentum with some humbling defeats to Castleford and Wigan over Easter. They need to turn things around with a win here.

So, will Trinity get back on the horse and  capitalise on a shaken up Hull KR side after Tony Smith’s shock decision to call time on his stint at Craven Park at the end of 2022.

Team News

The big news for the Robins is the return of Lachlan Coote to the 21-man squad as well Albert Vete after a lengthy spell on the side lines. There is no Matt Parcell due to a broken nose so extra pressure will be on the shoulders of Jez Litten. There will be a big call on the right edge with Ben Crooks, Brad Takairangi, Ethan Ryan and Sam Wood all vying for the spots.

Tom Johnstone is back in contention for Wakefield after missing the loss to Wigan Warriors. There’s still no Liam Hood but there is a spot for David Fifita in the 21-man squad. All three of Jacob Miller, Mason Lino and Lee Gaskell are in contention to play.

Match Preview – Key Battles:

Shaun Kenny-Dowall vs Reece Lyne: Two superb yet underrated centres with massive experience do battle at Craven Park. Both will be looking to inspire their team to victory here with huge moments in attack and defence.

Jordan Abdull vs Mason Lino: Jordan Abdull is quietly going about his business in 2022. Not grabbing the headlines he did in 2021, but continuing to lead his side well and bring the best out of young halfbacks Mikey Lewis and Rowan Milnes. He’ll likely be up against Mason Lino who, before Wakefield’s recent slump, was truly starting to shine.

George King vs Kelepi Tanginoa: The hard-working and always trustworthy George King will battle down the middle for supremacy with the explosive Kelepi Tanginoa. Both underrated players, one may give their side the edge in the middle of the park.

Where the game will be won and lost:

Wakefield will need to be defensively stronger all over the field than they were against Castleford and Wigan. Hull KR have the tools to score from anywhere on the pitch, so they will have to stop them if they’re to win here. If Trinity can be defensively resolute all over the field, they have the offensive capabilities and the strength in the middle to meet KR blow for blow.

Score Prediction: Hull KR 26-14 Wakefield Trinity