Hull KR secured their biggest ever Super League victory with a 74-12 demolition of Salford Red Devils, raising serious questions about the latter's future in the competition. Joe Burgess scored four tries as the league leaders ran in 14 tries, with Mikey Lewis providing eight try assists and scoring one himself.
Salford coach Paul Rowley expressed his frustration after the match, stating: 'I'm bored of it, I'm sick of it. We just want to compete. It's not what we want to see. We're sad at the situation and we're sad for the sport because we don't want to be in this position.' The defeat came amid ongoing financial troubles at Salford, who have been forced to sell players and rely on young squad members.
Hull KR coach Willie Peters also voiced concern, saying: 'I'm not sure what to feel because the situation Salford are in is not good. I feel for Paul Rowley, the players and the fans who are turning up every week. Some people have got to be held accountable because it's embarrassing for our game over here.'
Salford's financial problems have persisted despite a takeover in February, with a promised multimillion-pound bridging loan yet to materialise. The club had to request an advance on their central distribution earlier this season and remain under salary-cap constraints. There is growing uncertainty over whether Salford can continue as a Super League club, with relegation to the Championship a possibility.
The one-sided contest highlighted the gulf between the two sides, with Hull KR 34-6 ahead at half-time before adding 40 more points after the break. Peters' men now face a tougher test against defending champions Wigan in two weeks, while Salford's immediate future remains unclear.
