Chairman Paul Sewell truly believes this Hull KR side are ready to take the next step on their journey – just 80 minutes away from lifting the prestigious Challenge Cup trophy and ending their long-running trophy drought.
The buzz around East Hull has been electrifying in recent years. Since being appointed chairman in December 2022, Sewell, alongside head coach Willie Peters, has helped guide the club through a period of growing momentum and ambition.
Sewell has already seen the Robins play at the national stadium and Old Trafford in the Super League Grand Final. While he modestly plays down any suggestion of being a lucky charm, the Hull businessman is confident this squad is prepared for the next stage, having come agonisingly close in both 2023 and 2024.
“I don’t know much about that, but what I do know is that we’re ready,” he said.
“Were we quite ready two years ago, or even last year?… But you just know, after meeting with the lads, we’re ready this year.
“Now that doesn’t mean we’ll definitely get a result, but I just know we’re ready.”
Rovers are looking to end their trophy hoodoo, and the Sewell Group Craven Park outfit has become one of the most talked-about teams in the Northern Hemisphere. From taking a pre-season fixture to Amsterdam in January against York, to being selected for the NRL’s blockbuster event in Las Vegas next year alongside Leeds Rhinos, the club continues to make headlines.
On Saturday, all focus will be tuned in on making sure they are walking up the famous Wembley stairs to lift the prestigious Challenge Cup after an 80-minute battle.
“I’m very proud of the board,” Sewell added. “I’ve sat on lots of boards in my life, put lots of boards together and this has come together quickly and really cohesive. Everybody is pointing in the same direction. Thanks to the board for providing the platform for all that’s gone on, from Coldplay to Las Vegas, et cetera.
“Then it’s down to these guys, the squad that has been assembled. It’s different from two years ago. It’s ready. Thanks to everybody, and you just get the feeling they’re going to do the job this year.”