Hull KR overcome Hull FC in Magic Weekend derby

While the injury-depleted Robins could welcome back Sauaso Sue for the high-profile meeting on Merseyside, the heavy defeat at Leeds a week earlier meant the defending World Club Challenge holders were without forwards Tom Amone and Dean Hadley - who clashed heads in that game - while Tevita Pangai Jr was serving the first of a six-match ban.

Sue found himself among the game's early drama, as referee Griffiths waved away two tries in two minutes at either end. The Robins forward was first to be denied for obstruction, while Briscoe had his touchdown at the other end chalked off for a knock-on.

Lewis carved out and finished the first try that counted, sending a high kick up for Jack Broadbent to tip back to the half-back, who scampered over in the 16th minute.

Martin combined with Lewis soon after to add to Hull KR's advantage before Arthur squirmed over the line and twisted out of the clutches of two defenders to dot down for the Airlie Birds.

Hull FC went on to suffer a double blow late in the first half, losing Davy Litten to a head injury before Martin landed a penalty to edge the Robins 12-4 ahead.

But they stunned Rovers three minutes after the restart with a well-worked try that was finished in the corner by Briscoe.

The Black and Whites remained relentless after that, but desperate defending from Hull KR left them clutching at near misses until Hardaker eventually levelled with a penalty.

Broadbent was taken into touch by Logan Moy as he attempted to restore the Robins' lead against the run of play, but it was only a brief reprieve as Whitbread pounced for his controversial try and May put the result beyond doubt.

Hull KR: Hampshire, Davies, Hiku, Gildart, Broadbent, Lewis, May, Sue, Litten, Whitbread, Batchelor, Martin, Minchella.

Interchanges: Booth, Lawton, Dezaria, Leyland, Wainhouse.

Hull FC: Moy, Briscoe, Hardaker, Litten, Martin, Arthur, Sezer, Ese'ese, Bourouh, Hill, Batchelor, Clark, Bell.

Interchanges: Cust, Salabio, Mata'utia, Cartwright, Laidlaw.

Referee: Marcus Griffiths.