Tony Smith states Castleford Tigers “will become a good team” as he praises his Hull KR side for picking up first win

Hull KR Head Coach Tony Smith admitted the Castleford Tigers will “come good” this season.

Smith saw his side get their 2022 Super League season up and running with a hard-fought 26-10 home win against the Tigers, leaving the visitors winless after three matches.

Though happy with how his side performed, Smith remained adamant the Tigers will be difficult side to play against this year.

He said “We had to work hard for the win tonight. Full credit to Castleford and Lee Radford.

“You could see that both teams really wanted it and wanted to get out there and perform well.

“Castleford are going to be tough team. Do not write them off by any means. They will become a good team over the season, they just have not managed it yet.

“I am pleased that we came through some of the ‘arm-wrestle’ part of the contest. There were little areas of self-inflicted pain at times and I just thought we were starting to get on top a couple of times.

“In the first half, we unintentionally let them off the hook a couple of times and it got them back into the match.

“It was a scrappy that first half but that is rugby league at this time of the year and in these sort of conditions as well.

“The second half, we handled the match better and became “more Hull KR” like and showed some of what we are able to produce.

“Sometimes it takes some time to earn the right to play our way as well and I thought we did that pretty well tonight.”

Up and running in front of their home faithful and one individual who starred for the Robins was winger Sam Wood.

Wood scored two tries, redeeming himself after a torrid debut just two weeks ago in the home loss against Wigan.

But the new signing left that night well and truly behind him, even being announced as Man of the Match to the crowd.

Reflecting on his performance, Smith said “We have not been feeling sorry for Sam because we knew he is a good player.

“He played strong for us last week and did so again tonight and managed to show more of what we have already seen.

“I have been pretty impressed and so have some of his teammates of what he has done so far so no surprises for us but great that a few more in the public have seen him in our colours produce what he is capable of.

“I am delighted for him but also of others in our crew. Frankie Halton does not look out of place, still learning his way in only his second game.