Sam Tomkins rules on which team boast ‘best atmosphere in Super League’

Sam Tomkins has claimed that Hull KR will benefit a home play-off match more than any other side in Super League as he’s argued that Craven Park is the ground with the “best atmosphere” in the competition.

Tomkins’ comments came as those on Sky Sports assessed the Super League play-offs now that the top six has been confirmed following Friday night’s three games.

Hull KR defeated Leeds Rhinos to secure second spot, and that all-important home semi-final, whilst ending Leeds’ play-off hopes.

That meant that Warrington’s 54-0 win over London Broncos was in vain although it means that Wire head into the play-offs having scored 120 points in their last two matches and having not conceded a try for over three full games.

The other fixture saw Leigh Leopards complete their remarkable season turnaround as they beat St Helens 18-12 to secure fifth place, condemning Saints to sixth and meaning that Catalans Dragons’ top six hopes were over (barring a 181-point victory over Hull FC).

Catalans player Sam Tomkins was part of Sky Sports‘ punditry team and spoke about his side’s disappointment but quickly moved onto assessing the remaining games in Super League.

Do Hull KR boast the ‘best atmosphere’ in Super League?

Host Brian Carney put it to him: “Who wants to go to Sewel Group Craven Park to try and win a semi-final? It’ll be a tough place to go, they get a week’s rest and maybe get Minchella back in, depending on how their appeal goes this week, it’s an awesome prospect.”

Elliot Minchella’s appeal against his two-match ban (one of which has been served) will be heard on Tuesday night and Tomkins argued it would be “huge” if Hull KR could get him back.

He added: “Like I said before, I think they (Hull KR) get the most benefit from a home draw. I think it’s a tough place to go. Great atmosphere, the best atmosphere in Super League I believe.

“At the moment, what they’re creating off the field and on the field and delivering as well. So put them two together and it’s a tough place to go.”

Hull KR showed that last night as they gritted out a win over Leeds Rhinos 26-16 to mark their 21st Super League win of the year. At Craven Park, they’ve lost just two of fourteen across the season which underlined Tomkins’ argument.

“When you play them you do feel like you’re up against it. Going to Hull KR is tough any time of the year but when the fans are as excited as they are this time of year, their highest-ever finish, it’s going to be a tough one.”

The Super League play-off structure has been confirmed with Hull KR set to host their semi-final on Friday, 4th October.