Hull KR strengthened their grip on top spot in the Betfred Super League with a hard-fought 10–6 victory over reigning champions Wigan Warriors, opening up a six-point gap at the summit as the season enters its final stretch.
The Robins, who have already lifted the Challenge Cup this year, once again demonstrated their defensive resilience at the Brick Community Stadium to extend their lead in the race for the League Leaders’ Shield.
Round 22 results
Hull KR 10–6 Wigan Warriors
Warrington Wolves 30–22 Catalans Dragons
Leeds Rhinos 64–6 Castleford Tigers
Hull FC 18–12 Leigh Leopards
St Helens 52–4 Huddersfield Giants
Salford Red Devils vs Wakefield Trinity – match cancelled due to welfare concerns
League table after round 22
Hull KR – 38 pts
Wigan Warriors – 32 pts
St Helens – 30 pts
Leeds Rhinos – 30 pts
Leigh Leopards – 29 pts
Hull FC – 25 pts
Wakefield Trinity – 24 pts*
*Wakefield have a game in hand after their Round 22 clash with Salford was cancelled.
Chasing pack tightens
While Hull KR extended their lead, the battle beneath them remains fierce.
Wigan’s defeat leaves them vulnerable, with both St Helens and Leeds now level on 30 points and pushing hard for second place.
Leeds underlined their credentials with a comprehensive 64–6 victory away to Castleford, while St Helens were equally ruthless in a 52–4 home win over Huddersfield.
Leigh Leopards slipped to fifth after defeat at Hull FC, who boosted their own playoff chances with a gritty performance in front of their home supporters.
Warrington back on track
Warrington also registered an important win, overcoming Catalans Dragons 30–22 to maintain their hopes of breaking into the top six.
Salford’s future in doubt
The biggest off-field development came with the cancellation of Salford Red Devils’ fixture against Wakefield Trinity.
The club cited welfare issues and an inability to field a competitive side, raising fresh concerns about its long-term stability.
The Rugby Football League confirmed it is in discussions with Salford over their ability to complete the season’s remaining fixtures.
A decision is also awaited on how the cancelled match will be treated, with Wakefield potentially still in the mix for a top-six finish depending on whether they are awarded points.
What it means for the Play-Offs
Hull KR (1st, 38 pts): Six points clear at the top and near-certainties for the League Leaders’ Shield. They will already have one eye on Old Trafford.
Wigan Warriors (2nd, 32 pts): Still well-placed but under pressure. A home semi-final is no longer guaranteed.
St Helens (3rd, 30 pts): In form and closing fast. Their points difference could be crucial in the final standings.
Leeds Rhinos (4th, 30 pts): Peaking at the right time. The play-offs look secure, but they’ll want to climb into the top two.
Leigh Leopards (5th, 29 pts): Slipped this week but remain contenders. Must respond quickly to avoid being dragged into a scrap.
Hull FC (6th, 25 pts): Gaining momentum and now inside the six. Face a tough run-in but belief is growing.
Wakefield Trinity (7th, 24 pts):* Still alive in the race but waiting on the RFL’s ruling over the abandoned Salford fixture. Any points awarded could prove decisive.
Warrington Wolves (outside top six): Back in contention after beating Catalans. Will need a near-perfect finish to break back in.
Next round – round 23 fixtures
Leeds Rhinos vs Hull KR – Thursday, August 21
St Helens vs Hull FC – Friday, August 22
Leigh Leopards vs Salford Red Devils – Friday, August 22
Catalans Dragons vs Castleford Tigers – Saturday, August 23
Huddersfield Giants vs Warrington Wolves – Sunday, August 24
Wigan Warriors vs Wakefield Trinity – Sunday, August 24