Lachlan Coote hailed after inspiring Hull KR to derby victory

Hull KR coach Tony Smith was full of praise for experienced full-back Lachlan Coote, who inspired his side to a 16-4 win over rivals Hull FC.

The Scotland international produced a man of the match performance by scoring two tries to help the Robins claim the bragging rights over their city rivals.

On Coote, Smith said: “He’s great, he’s a footy player.

“He does some great stuff in deep for us, organising us in deep. He turns up in attack and shows up in support left, right and centre.

“I love when he gets the ball, particularly when he’s first receiver.

“He’s great for us not just because of the rugby he plays but what he’s going to leave behind after a couple of years with us.”

Hull KR defence pleases coach Tony Smith

The win at a sold-out Craven Park saw Hull KR go level on points with Hull FC in fifth in the Super League table.

Smith praised his side’s defence as well as their forward pack following the victory.

He said: “I thought defensively we were really good.

“Our forwards aren’t the biggest pack but they’re hard workers, they’re just honest hard workers.

“They turn up for one another and you can’t ask for much more than that. Right from the word go we weren’t going to take a backwards step.”

Speaking after the game, Smith said he had not followed up an incident in the second half when Hull prop Brad Fash allegedly bit Hull KR forward Elliot Minchella.

Referee James Child talked with his touch judge before deciding not to put the incident on report.

On the incident, Smith said: “I’m too joyous. No I didn’t even ask (about it).”

Hull coach Brett Hodgson said: “I don’t know what happened. I don’t know why the referee called the touch judge in so I’ll have to wait and see what happened there I’m afraid.”

PLAY: Is Lachlan Coote in your Fantasy Rugby League team? Click here to create yours now!