Hull KR coach Tony Smith on Jordan Abdull absence and awesome fans
Picture by Will Palmer/SWpix.com - 01/04/2022 - Rugby League - Betfred Super League - Hull KR v Warrington Wolves - Sewell Group Craven Park, Hull, England - Warrington Wolves warm up prior to the match against Hull KR
Hull KR made light of the absence of Jordan Abdull with a comfortable 34-18 win over Warrington.
A bumper crowd of 10,069 attended the first game at Sewell Group Craven Park since the club confirmed it had re-purchased the ground.
And they were treated to a fine performance by the Robins, who led 20-0 inside 16 minutes.
Hooker Matt Parcell was in blistering form as they scored seven tries in total.
Coach Tony Smith said: “The crowd was awesome. The boys were talking about it in the changing room. Playing in front of a big crowd, with that atmosphere, cheering on every tackle at one stage.
“You could the crowd enjoying it and I’m pleased our players responded and gave them something to cheer about.
“It’s a two-way thing. They can bring out the best in us, and we’re grateful, and hopefully we can repay them with some attractive rugby.”
Smith revealed that Abdull was forced to miss the game with a severe ear infection.
The England international contacted his coach overnight to report the problem.
He added: “The doctor says it’s quite a bad one. It was clear this morning he had no chance of playing, and it was a pretty straight forward decision for Rowan (Milnes) to come in.
“Physically he’s fine. When the doctor saw him he said it was quite significant and little wonder that he wasn’t feeling right.
“He put his hand up to play anyway, but we have an able replacement there. He should be OK for next week.”
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