Willie Peters hailed Peta Hiku as a “key member” of Hull KR ’s team after calling his performance in the win over Warrington Wolves “outstanding.”
The Kiwi veteran was named player of the match following the 31-12 victory over Sam Burgess’ side – just a fortnight before the two teams meet again in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
Hiku proved a handful for the opposition, contributing two assists in the Super League Round 12 win, which helped maintain Hull KR’s form at the top of the table. He set up Tyrone May after a long-range break including Arthur Mourgue, before feeding Tom Davies for his second try at the Halliwell Jones Stadium to cement the victory.
“I thought Peta Hiku was outstanding,” head coach Peters declared. “I thought it was a good little tussle on the right-hand side. Connor Wrench is a good player, he’s going to have a big future, and I thought he did extremely well against an experienced guy in Peta. But then he found a way as the game went on to get himself in the game and take his opportunities.”
Peters had recently referred to Hiku as Rovers’ “unsung hero”, and the 32-year-old certainly seems to be in fine form.
He arrived at Sewell Group Craven Park in 2024 as a full-back, but quickly found a home in the centres – and Peters insists he is one of the best in the competition.
“He’s done it since he arrived, he doesn’t miss any games – I rested him last week. He’s tough, he’s a physical player and he’s got skill,” Peters continued.
“He’s a footy player. Initially, he played full-back when he first came over just because he can play, and he can adapt, whether it’s six, centre or full-back. His best position is centre, there’s no doubt about that.
“He’s a key member of our team and someone that we value. He’s one of the premier centres.”