Challenge Cup: Hull FC 16-32 Hull KR

KR occupy top spot in Super League and FC are currently second, which promised a thrilling quarter-final tie on paper, yet both sides looked off the boil in a sketchy opening 10 minutes filled with unforced errors.

The visitors were dealt a huge blow after just a quarter of an hour as talismanic half-back Lewis limped off the field with what appeared to be a groin injury.

Rather than resting on their laurels, KR powered on after Lewis headed straight down the tunnel and almost led moments after his exit as Litten sailed a tricky long-range kick just wide of the post.

They kept up the pressure and were rewarded when Davies dived in at the corner at the conclusion of a flowing lateral move – and the visitors wasted no time in adding to their advantage as Burgess squeezed through minutes later.

Hull KR virtually looked out of sight just before the half-time hooter as Broadbent went over after some impressive build-up play from Peta Hiku and Sam Luckley.

Burgess’ second came after Hull FC’s Jack Ashworth cheaply lost possession and the visitors added insult to injury as Litten – who had come on as a substitute – brought his scoring count to 30 for the afternoon with a fine try.

But FC began a late fightback when Martin crossed at the corner from Jordan Rapana’s fine offload and they were over again when Ese’ese powered in next to the sticks to set up a highly-charged finale.

Hull KR twice could have wrapped up a thumping derby win in style – first when Tyrone May touched down in front of the travelling supporters before his score was chalked off for a knock on in the build-up, and again when Burgess went over for what could have been a hat-trick try were it not for an obstruction on FC debutant Will Pryce.