A rivalry like no other

In recent years, the Hull Derby has become my patch. I would never profess that I get it like a true Hullensian, but after spending more than my fair share of time around the city and being engulfed in the build-ups, there are a few outside observations that smack you square in the face.

- By MATTY SHAW

There is truly no rivalry like Hull FC and Hull KR, and that's down to the supporters. You're all obsessed with each other. It's a running joke within our team that when you write a story about one of the two clubs, all the replies come from those who support the other. Dare speak positively about one club, you will feel the other's wrath. Around the last derby I was accused of being bias towards both clubs in response to the same article!

But it's that tribalism that makes this derby what it is. And the levels of pettiness people will stoop to in order to have a swipe. Any ammunition will be used. The volume of sledging is unlike anything you'll see anywhere else across sport.