“We never got off the bus” – Smith to ring the changes after Hull KR’s cup thrashing

Tony Smith admitted there will be several changes to Hull KR’s team next week after they were dumped out of the Challenge Cup by Leeds.

The Robins’ head coach watched his side fall 24-0 behind within the first 22 minutes at the Totally Wicked Stadium, eventually falling to a 48-18 defeat.

It was a disappointing night for Rovers, especially after their encouraging displays against Wigan and St Helens in recent weeks, and they must now regroup for when they face the Rhinos again on Thursday, this time in Super League.

“We never got off the bus,” said Smith. “They started quickly, effectively and efficiently and we did not.

“There was a reaction in the second half but it took us far too long to find any way back. I will absolutely consider changes for next week. There will be plenty of new faces.

“I have some boys who have not had a run for a while, whereas I have some who have put in some stints over the last numbers of weeks. I need to give a few guys a rest, they looked very tired tonight.

“I was hoping for a big performance out of them before giving them a break but they will have that next week.

“There will be a lot of new faces next week, hopefully be ready to jump out of their skins for a big performance.”

Changes will actually be forced upon Smith for the league clash in six days time after he confirmed two players came out of the game with injuries.

“There are suspected broken hands for both Matty Storton and Ethan Ryan,” Smith added. “As far as I know, they are the only two casualties whereas everyone else seemed to have got through fine.

“Anyone who is fit and healthy, not in our squad, will be contenders to be in next week.

If I was to name a player, possibly Will Tate. He has every chance of playing next week. I am really looking forward to him getting his first ever first-grade jersey.”