Eorl Crabtree expects Leeds Rhinos’ big-game experience to prove decisive in tomorrow’s Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
But the Giants prop is still tipping Hull KR to give them a run for their money.
The Rhinos are red-hot favourites to lift the famous old trophy and prove too strong for a Rovers side who missed out on a place in the Super 8s and are currently battling it out in the Qualifiers to retain their Super League status for 2016.
Coach Chris Chester’s men are on course to do just that.
And having opened their Qualifying campaign with three wins out of three to lead the middle eights table, Crabtree doesn’t think Leeds will have everything their own way.
“Leeds are understandably the favourites, but there’s no way Hull KR could ever be written off,” said Crabtree, who is on BBC TV duty this weekend and was in the Giants side beaten 20-16 by the Robins at Craven Park on Easter Monday.
“Right now, Hull KR are playing with a lot of confidence, have decent players throughout the side and have the skills to threaten any side. Unfortunately, we discovered that to our cost against them earlier this season.
“I’m sure they’ll create a few opportunities and score some tries this weekend. As such big underdogs they’ll probably feel they’ve nothing to lose and can just go for it.
“Hull KR will also be hoping the fact Leeds are such strong favourites will heap all the pressure on them, but I don’t see that proving a bid problem for a side like Leeds.
“A big key to their success over the years is their ability to handle the pressure. It seems to bring the best out of them, and I see no reason why that won’t happen again this weekend.
“I’m sure we’ll continue to see Leeds playing the way they have done this season – playing a free-flowing brand of rugby that’s great to watch and has proved so effective.
“I just hope Hull KR can live with them when that happens.”
Crabtree would obviously loved to have been part of a Giants side lining up in one of rugby league’s major showpiece events.
But he’s still excited about being a part of the BBC commentary team covering the event.
“I’m travelling down there today and will be soaking up the atmosphere ahead of the game,” he added.
“I’ll be passing on my pre-match comments at the side of the Wembley pitch, moving into the studio for the half-time analysis and then hanging around for the post-match stuff.
“Obviously, there’s nothing to beat playing in a final yourself, but I still get a buzz out of being involved on the media side of things, and it’s certainly a lot less painful!
“I’m getting to the stage in my career where I appreciate having a little more time to get over the knocks you’re always going to be carrying.
“So, all being well, this weekend’s break and experience will really help freshen me up and set me up for a good week heading into next Thursday’s home game against Castleford.
“That’s another massive game for us.”
