Hull KR become the new underdog as Centurions bow out in style

The Hull Kingston Rovers have outlasted a fast finishing Catalans Dragons in the Challenge Cup quarter final.

In the other clashes over the weekend Leeds overcame Hull FC, St Helens defeated Widnes and Warrington held off a plucky Leigh.

Rovers outlast Catalans
An almost perfect first half from the Rovers proved just enough for the Hull side to reach the final four for the first time since 2006. Luckily for the Rovers they will avoid a semi final against St Helens who posted 50 against them in that 2006 semi final.

Hull KR have instead drawn Warrington for the grand final qualifier after the Wolves managed to hold off a brave challenge from Leigh. Hull KR started Thursday night’s match against in great form with four straight tries and a penalty from Josh Mantellato setting up a half-time lead of 26-4.

The second half was a different story as the French side worked their way back into the game, with tries to new signings Krisnan Inu and Zeb Taia. It was ultimately too little too late for the Dragons, as Mantellato’s kicking proved to be the difference.

Rover’s fullback Kieran Dixon was once again superb from fullback, his kick returns consistently troubled the big Catalans forwards and his footwork helped pull Hull KR out of their own red zone. Former Gold Coast halfback Albert Kelly has often been criticised for his tackling, but showed he could come up with the right defensive attitude when the game was on the line.

Hull KR have been really exciting to watch over the last month and if they can improve their discipline towards the end of the game, a Challenge Cup Final spot is there for the taking. They will play Salford overnight in a Super League catch up match to try and break into the top eight.

Reigning Premiers to meet current Cup holders
St Helens will take on Leeds Rhinos in a blockbuster semi-final tie, after both sides won their Quarter Finals. Leeds defeated Hull FC for the second week in a row as they trounced the Black and Whites 24-6 at the KC Stadium.

The Rhinos were able to master the wet conditions; they punished the home side’s high error rate and ill-discipline on defence. Kevin Sinfield was able to kick three penalties and three conversions to steer his side a step closer to another Challenge Cup Final.

The pair will also meet in a mouthwatering Friday night match at Headingly in a top of the table clash which will decide who sits top of the Super League ladder for the time being.

St Helens were able to overcome a resolute Widnes challenge to reach their first semi-final in four years, winning 36-20 at Langtree Park. Widnes held a small lead early in the second-half but the Saints scored three tries in the last 15 minutes to send the Vikings out of the Cup.

Wolves hold out brave Centurions
Leigh pushed Warrington all the way in an enthralling Challenge Cup cracker. The Championship outfit attacked from all areas of the field, led by their half Ryan Brierley. The Centurions scored three tries to lead the Wolves 14-12 at the break and it looked like another Super League scalp could be claimed by Leigh.

It took two tries from Kevin Penny, the second a spectacular effort as the winger dived around the Leigh defence. With his whole body outside the field of play he somehow managed to get the ball down in what could be considered the try of the year.

This game was a shot in the arm for Super League; it had all the drama, action, suspense and skill worthy of the NRL. Hats off to both teams and the referee, who controlled the match and allowed play to flow.

Whoever drops into the Middle 8’s in a month’s time will have a fight on their hands to regain their position in Super League for 2016.