Smith praises “unpredictable” Rovers as Hull KR get back to winning ways

Hull Kingston Rovers Head Coach Tony Smith praised his “unpredictable” side as they returned to winning ways with a 40-16 home triumph over Leigh.

The Robins shrugged off last week’s disappointment by treating their returning supporters to eight tries on a memorable afternoon at Hull College Craven Park.

Smith was particularly impressed by his half-back combination of Rowan Milnes and Jordan Abdull.

He said, “Our half-backs run the ball a lot and are good in each of our games. There is no special instruction there. Rowan Milnes played good footy, particularly in the second half.

“He got better as the game went on and I am pleased for him. He is young and he is developing and generating a good combination with Jordan Abdull.

“They are producing good rugby on both sides of the park which I love. I hate when they get so sided that it is predictable and boring.

“It helps give them the green light to turn up wherever on the field. Rowan certainly had his strongest game of the year and I am pleased for him.”

With results going their way, the Robins now move into the top half of the Super League table.

Several of their new signings starred in the game, with Ryan Hall scoring another hat-trick for the club, taking his season total up to 11 and leaving him as the top try scorer in the league.

Reflecting on his new signings, Smith said, “Brad Takairangi has some dangerous skills. You can see that he is going to continue to be a danger in Super League,”

“Ryan Hall scoring three tries, I told him at the start of the year that he would score a number of tries for us.

“I thought our skipper was outstanding today. I thought there was a lot of good performances but Shaun Kenny-Dowall led the way, he had a lot of character, made a lot of metres and he took some of those tough carries for us.

“I know Ryan does those as well but Shaun was right behind him there today.”

After 441 days of waiting, the Hull KR fans patience was rewarded as they finally got to celebrate with their players at the end of the game.

“The players and the fans deserved the lap of honour at the end,” Smith added.

“The supporters have stuck by us. All of those members have earned it as much as anybody.

“I am delighted as it was nice for the players to get appreciation of what we did here today.”