As the Betfred Super League heats up, all eyes are on the upcoming match between Hull KR and Leigh Leopards this Sunday, March 23, 2025. Both teams are currently sitting atop the competition ladder with Hull KR boasting an impressive four wins from four matches and Leigh not far behind with three wins and a draw.
Head Coach of Hull KR, Willie Peters, recently announced a modified 21-man squad for the clash against the Leopards. The squad sees the return of key players, including Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Dean Hadley, and Michael McIlorum. Additionally, AJ Wallace has been included, promising a strong showing from the Robins as they look to maintain their unbeaten streak.
The full squad features familiar faces such as Tom Davies, Peta Hiku, and Joe Burgess, alongside fresh talents like Jai Whitbread and Danny Richardson. This mix of experience and youth positions Hull KR well ahead of the encounter, where they will face a Leigh team determined to end a five-game losing streak against their rivals.
Leigh’s Head Coach Adrian Lam referred to the upcoming match as a showdown against a "different beast." His team recently lifted the Betfred Challenge Cup in 2023 but has struggled since then, suffering consecutive defeats, four against Hull KR at Craven Park. Lam stated, "They have recruited well and spent a lot of money on their squad. They should be at the top purely off the back of the amount of money they have spent."
Having positioned themselves second in the Super League table, Lam acknowledges the significance of this particular matchup. "It’s a nice place to be. We have earned it and we want to stay there," he emphasized. The Leopards aim to leverage their financings to become more formidable, especially with the addition of experienced players in their ranks.
Injuries have challenged Leigh's squad prior to this match. Lam is hoping for the return of forwards Robbie Mulhern and Frankie Halton. Gareth O'Brien will be available again for the half-back pairing with Lachlan Lam after recovering from a head injury. However, Josh Charnley is not expected back for about three weeks following knee surgery, and Darnell McIntosh suffered an AC joint injury that may sideline him until early next month.
Compounding matters for Leigh is their historical struggle at Hull KR’s home ground. Their last victory in east Hull was back in 2023 with a close 30-25 success in the Challenge Cup final. As they prepare to face Hull KR again, Lam expressed that Leigh might need to adapt their gameplan to clinch a win. "We go there and will probably have to do things we haven’t done so far this year to win," he remarked, indicating a shift in their approach might be necessary.
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter given both teams' ambitions: Hull KR aiming to preserve their perfect record and Leigh desperate to alter their current trajectory. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as each team looks to solidify its standing in the Super League.
With anticipation building for the game, tools for fans to secure their tickets for the match have been made available. Tickets for the Leigh Leopards clash will go on general sale ahead of the match. Pricing is structured with adults in the East and West Stands listed at £30, concessions at £26, and juniors at £12. Under-8s can get in for free, making it an accessible outing for families.
Family tickets are available, offering options like one adult and one junior for £35 in the East and West Stands, or £31 in The Heatable South Stand. Fans can purchase tickets online or by visiting The Brick Community Stadium in person, ensuring they don’t miss out on this exciting encounter.
Pre-match preparations are underway not only for the players but also for the fans, with Leigh's supporters encouraged to secure their spots early. As the teams gear up for battle, the spirit of competition looms large, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable match.
With both Hull KR and Leigh Leopards hitting their strides, the clash on Sunday is not just about winning, but about proving oneself at the top of the league. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, excitement builds for what fans hope will be a thrilling and closely contested game.
