Video - Hull FC v Hull KR: Derby battle is worthy of the hype, insists Rovers' Ben Cockayne

The player, who has a long history of the famous fixture against Hull FC dating back to 2007, will be key to his side’s bid to rescue a top-eight place.

Only a win will keep that dream alive but their hosts also seek victory to return to the top of Super League.

Cockayne, 32, said: “Whether it’s an important game like Thursday or a friendly there is always some hype behind the derby.

“There’s reasons to have that hype this week because we have a lot to play for and they’ve lost top spot over the last few weeks.

“In terms of importance it’s one of the most important I’ve played in. Whatever way you look at it we’ve left it too late and we’ve put ourselves in an uncomfortable position but we can take some confidence from the last few weeks.

“We’re fighting to get into the top-eight after an indifferent season, pretty much like last year.

“As much as I don’t like saying it, Hull have had a great year. They’ve got the strength in depth and that’s really helped them.

“We want to make it three back-to-back losses for them, though.

“The main motivation for us is to get in the top-eight – but to also keep them away from the top spot.”

Rovers have given themselves a slim chance of edging into the Super 8s given Friday’s 20-19 win against Huddersfield Giants, secured by Cockyane’s successful late conversion.

He is not ordinarily a kicker but, with Josh Mantellato still sidelined, he said: “It was like going back to my Normanton Knights amateur days – a match-winning kick!”