Yorkshire | York Knights stun Hull KR

York Knights 19 - 18 Hull KR

Reigning champions Hull KR were stunned by debutants York Knights as the Super League season began with a huge upset.

Author | Oliver W

Stadium | York Community Stadium

Sam Wood’s early try handed the hosts an unexpected lead before Jai Whitbread powered over to leave the scores level at 6-6 at the interval.

Whitbread then forced his way across for a second to edge the visitors in front and Sauaso Sue went under the posts, a moment that appeared to put Hull KR in control.

The contest shifted decisively, however, when the visitors were reduced to 12 men after Mikey Lewis was sin-binned for a needless trip on Liam Harris. Wood struck again while Harris was off the field and Scott Galeano crossed to restore parity, before Ata Hingano sealed a fairytale victory with a drop-goal.

The consequences of defeat may extend beyond opening weekend for last season’s treble winners. Half-back Lewis lashed out at York captain Harris and now faces the prospect of missing next week’s World Club Challenge against NRL premiers Brisbane Broncos should he be suspended.

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York out to impress this season

York Knights followed up an outstanding Championship campaign in 2025 by stepping up to an expanded Super League this season, alongside Bradford Bulls and Toulouse Olympique.

Few gave York much hope in this contest, yet backed by a fervent home crowd and playing in relentless rain, they made a vibrant start. Sam Wood crossed in the corner after a spell of ill discipline from the visitors handed the hosts valuable field position and early belief.

Head Coach reaction

After the match, Mark Applegarth spoke of his delight to BBC Radio 5 live

"I'm proud as punch. We knew if we could be there or thereabouts in the last 20 minutes then the pressure would be on them and luckily we were.

"We've got a lot of self-belief and we'll back ourselves to the hilt.”