No relegation means more freedom for teams to play, says Tony Smith

Hull KR coach Tony Smith says his players will be given a free rein for the rest of the season following the decision to scrap relegation.

Rovers remain rooted to the foot of the Super League table following a 40-10 defeat by Warrington on their season resumption at Headingley but Smith was able to draw positives from their performance.

Without the fear of the drop, Smith admits a huge weight has been taken from his team’s shoulders and he expects more entertaining matches as a result.

Smith said: “It makes a huge difference. We’re more likely to see teams try to win games rather than try not to lose them, which makes for better rugby league.

“I find it far more entertaining than the stuff we’ve been dishing up for the last five years, the five drives and a kick to the corner.

“I’m hoping all teams play a bit more. I’ve been encouraged with what I’ve seen since the restart.”

Hull KR had their moments, particularly in the first half, and their players had plenty to prove with opting to field all 11 of the club’s off-contract players.

Smith added: “I’d hate to make decisions after one performance but some did better than others. Some will need a chance to prove themselves again, while others put runs on the board.

“We got off to a great start and we were probably a bit unlucky to be behind at half-time. In the second half we didn’t start the same way, which was disappointing.

“I’m encouraged by some of what we produced. We’re far from the finished article and we need to improve some areas but there are positives to take out of it.”

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