Hudgell chasing Hull KR history

Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell was delighted with the way the Robins reached their first Challenge Cup final for over 30 years by beating Warrington at Headingley on Saturday.

But he also knows that it is vital for the club to now go on and win the Cup, and seal a place in history for their passionate fans.

“We’ve got an opportunity now and that’s all it is – an opportunity to make some history,” said Hudgell, speaking at the post-match press conference.

“A different club breaking that cycle of the same four or five going to Wembley is good for the game. I should think we will go to Wembley in great numbers, 25,000 or 30,000 fans.

“It really hasn’t sunk in yet. It will take a really long while. I am pleased for everyone. It has been a really long time coming.”

Hudgell was also pleased for the Hull KR fans, who have endured a roller coaster of a campaign.

“I’m really pleased for the supporters. I have been a lifelong fan of Hull KR, so I know about the pain,” he added.

“There have been a lot of lows and this is a real high. My mind has already switched to we’ve got to go one better. Nobody remembers a beaten finalist so we need to really up our game.

“We need to turn up and really give Leeds a good crack and try and create some history for the club.

“The person I am really pleased for is Chris (Chester, KR coach) because it’s his first gig. Hull can be a very cruel place when things aren’t going great.

“Obviously we missed out on the Super 8s and it’s a goldfish bowl. It’s very easy for the pressure to crank up.

“It’s a monumental achievement to get to Wembley even though we’ve missed out on the eights. It’s been 35 years since we won the cup at Wembley.”