Warrington Wolves secured their place in the Super League semi‑finals with a convincing 35‑12 win over defending champions Hull KR at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, earning a clash with Leeds Rhinos on September 25. The victory marked the Wolves' first semi‑final appearance since the 2024 campaign, after missing the playoffs the previous year, and it also signalled the end of Willie Peters' tenure as head coach of the Robins, who had guided Hull KR to a historic title in 2025. The match began with Warrington asserting themselves early. A well‑executed grubber kick from George Williams sent the ball deep into Hull KR territory, where Joe Burgess gathered it but mishandled the ball, allowing Ben Currie to swoop in and dive over for the opening try.
Ewan Irwin added the conversion, giving the home side a 6‑0 lead that delighted the packed crowd. Warrington continued to press, and Irwin slotted a penalty for an off‑side infringement, extending the advantage to eight points within the first fifteen minutes. Hull KR responded through a spectacular effort from Joe Burgess, who, after a brilliant pass from Arthur Mourgue, sprinted the length of the field to score a "wonder‑try" that briefly narrowed the margin. The half‑time score, however, stood at 12‑6 to Warrington after Matty Ashton crossed for a second try and Currie's earlier effort was converted.
The narrow lead set the stage for a tense second half. The turning point arrived just three minutes after the restart when Peta Hiku was shown a red card for an alleged punch on George Williams.
Although the contact appeared light, the referee deemed it sufficient to eject Hiku, leaving Warrington with only twelve men for the remainder of the contest. The Wolves responded immediately, exploiting the extra space on the wing.
Ashton collected a wide pass and dived over for his second try of the game, completing a hat‑trick that would prove decisive. The try was awarded despite a brief controversy over a potential forward pass, but the decision stood, pushing the score to 16‑6. Hull KR, now playing with a numerical disadvantage, refused to capitulate. In the 53rd minute, a breakaway by Burgess created an opening for Dean Hadley, who powered over from close range to reduce the deficit to 16‑12 after Mourgue's conversion.
The Wolves, however, quickly re‑asserted control. James Bentley intercepted a pass deep in his own half, setting up Ashton for a lightning‑fast run that secured his third try, sealing the hat‑trick and extending the lead to 22‑12. Albert Hopoate added a further try on the wing, diving into the corner and showcasing his speed and agility.
Irwin's reliable boot added the conversion, pushing the margin to 28‑12. Hull KR managed a late consolation try when Toby King brushed over, and Williams added a drop‑goal to make the final tally 35‑12. Post‑match, Hull KR head coach Willie Peters addressed Sky Sports, acknowledging that discipline had been a recurring issue throughout the season and that the red card had compounded their challenges. He praised his players for their resilience, noting the pride he felt for the progress made over the past four years, including the landmark 2025 championship.
Peters also reflected on Peta Hiku's three‑year stint with the club, describing the incident as a regrettable lapse but emphasizing Hiku's overall contribution. Warrington coach Sam Burgess also spoke to Sky Sports, expressing pride in his squad's performance and highlighting the importance of precision in finishing opportunities.
He admitted that the team had left several potential tries unconverted in both halves and that a sharper focus on execution could have secured an even earlier victory. Looking ahead, Warrington's semi‑final against Leeds Rhinos is scheduled for Friday, September 25, with an 8 p.m.
kickoff on Sky Sports. The winner will advance to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3. Meanwhile, Wigan Warriors will host Wakefield Trinity on Saturday, September 26, in the other semi‑final, with a 5.30 p.m.
start on Sky Sports. The broader Super League playoffs continue to unfold, with matches already played including Wakefield Trinity's 26‑16 win over Leigh Leopards on September 18 and Warrington's own 35‑12 triumph over Hull KR on September 19.
Fans can follow the remaining fixtures live on Sky Sports as the competition builds toward the season‑ending Grand Final.