Phil Hogan scores for Hull KR
Hull’s Australian Test halfback, Peter Sterling was outplayed by cross city rival, Paul Harkin in the final of the prestigious John Player Trophy knockout competition, a match that went ahead despite the big freeze gripping England’s north.
After an inspection of the playing surface at Hull’s Boothferry Park, referee, Stan Wall signalled thumbs up just three hours before scheduled kick-off.
Harkin’s Man of the Match award crowned a memorable week for the 28-year-old, who had been selected in Great Britain’s squad for Test series against France. His tactical kicking was the outstanding facet of his game, and was a huge factor in Hull Kingston Rovers’ 12-0 win, played in front of a record John Player Trophy crowd of 25,326.
Rovers’ forwards, Australian, Gavin Miller and Englishman, Phil Hogan pushed Harkin for the top honour, with Hogan scoring one of his side’s three tries. Miller, with his vigorous defence, played a major role in blotting out Sterling. Miller’s ball skills also came to the fore, with the Inverell born star setting up the first try of the match for Kiwi, Gary Prohm, and also playing a role in Hogan’s try. Hogan through a lovely pass for Garry Clark to score the final try, seven minutes from fulltime. Scotsman, George Fairbairn missed all three conversion attempts.
Hull KR had beaten Halifax 14-8 in the semis while Hull accounted for Leeds 18-6. Halifax had led 8-0 thanks to tries to Australian, Paul Langmack and two goals by Malcolm Agar.
About Author
That should be ‘threw’ a pass – not ‘through’. I’ll blame the lack of a reliable sub-editor. Sorry Mel. (That’s not part of her job).