Rovers take derby spoils and another step to Leaders' Shield

Hull KR will be crowned League Leaders' Shield winners for the first time in the Super League era after defeating their arch rivals, Hull FC, 18-4 at Sewell Group Craven Park.

- By MATT SHAW

In front of a packed house, the Robins delivered on the big stage, downing their determined rivals with a tenacious performance that eventually saw them prove just too much for the Black and Whites.

Rovers haven’t mathematically won the League Leaders' Shield yet but their superior points difference means it is as close to a guarantee as you can get.

It will be the first time Rovers have finished top of the table since 1985.

All eyes are now on their Grand Final redemption, that is what matters for the Robins now.

They've done the treble over their rivals, now they want the one, two, three in the trophy cabinet. It is more than attainable.

As for Hull FC, they came away with credit despite defeat. Their playoff hopes remain alive with games against Catalans and Warrington still to come. The resilience they are showing could take them a long way, despite the injuries that threaten to derail them.

The major team news before the game was the surprise absence of Joe Burgess, who was pulled out 24 hours before due to a calf complaint in the captain's run.

It meant a place in the side for Noah Booth, coming in for his first appearance in almost three months.