Willie Peters is eager to harness Hull KR’s momentum in preparation for the Challenge Cup final with Warrington Wolves. However, a major decision looms for the head coach ahead of their final Super League fixture before the Wembley showdown.
A strong squad is predicted for Friday’s Round 13 clash with St Helens at Sewell Group Craven Park. But one key member may benefit from being rested – not only due to his ever-present Super League status in 2025, but also because he’s walking a disciplinary tightrope.
Dean Hadley, who has missed just one game all year in the early rounds of the cup, is just one grade B offence away from suspension that would rule him out of the final. The reliable forward was one of two Rovers players to be charged by the match review panel on Monday, alongside team-mate Jez Litten.
The 27-year-old livewire hooker only picked up a single point, doubling his total tally for the season. However, Hadley received a grade B dangerous contact charge, carrying three points and a fine.
The minimum threshold for a one-match suspension is six points, so another likewise charge would see 32-year-old Hadley miss out on the showpiece event on Saturday, June 7.
Challenge Cup 2025 special
Our Challenge Cup 2025 special newspaper is the perfect accompaniment to this year’s big game. Packed full of exclusive interviews with representatives of both Hull KR and Warrington Wolves, we also have features with cup heroes of the past such as Sean Long, Andy Gregory, Martin Offiah and Mal Reily.
We profile Lance Todd, the man little is known about who gives his name to the man of the match award. There’s a look at forgotten cup final venues, ranking the best finals, the best 13 of Lance Todd winners, plus a preview of the 1895 Cup final, women’s Challenge Cup final and Year 7 boys final.
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Given Hadley’s workload this season and his impact on the team, Peters may opt to rest the consistent forward, who has been at the heart of Rovers’ transformation.
Adding to the concern, the Robins stalwart suffered a minor calf issue in the closing exchanges in the Challenge Cup dress rehearsal win over Warrington. While Peters remained optimistic post-match at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, the knock could be another reason to sideline Hadley as a precaution this week.
It could also present another opportunity for Eribe Doro to feature, after impressing on his Rovers Super League debut at Magic Weekend from the interchange bench.