Hull KR head coach Willie Peters expressed his pride in his team’s performance despite a third consecutive defeat that leaves them clinging on to their top six play-off spot.

Peters chose to rest a number of regular starters, in addition to those who were injured or suspended, and handed three players their senior debuts for the club at Wigan Warriors on Thursday night.

The understrength Robins produced a spirited showing in a 46-0 defeat to the in-form Warriors.

“I’m really proud of the performance because we had a young side out there tonight and the players didn’t stop fighting until the end,” said Peters.

“We pride ourselves on our work ethic and not giving up and we didn’t do that. You will see all these players in two years’ time and it was great to be able to give them that chance.”

The reigning Super League champions will go into next week’s home clash with Huddersfield Giants with their destiny still in their own hands despite the form dip – and their personnel issues easing.

Peters confirmed that Tom Davies, Peta Hiku and Jez Litten will all return, while Dean Hadley, Elliot Minchella and Joe Burgess should all shrug off minor injuries.

“We either deserve to be in the play-offs or we don’t,” admitted Peters. “We just need to make sure we win next week. When it’s in your hands, it’s down to you to get it done.”

Hull KR produced a spirited effort in defeat to Wigan. (Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — Hull KR produced a spirited effort in defeat to Wigan. (Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com)

Wigan head coach Matt Peet praised his players for rising to the occasion and celebrating the life of Sir Billy Boston in fitting fashion.

Peet was keen to stress the importance of delivering a memorable display to match the pre-match tributes to Boston, rugby league’s first knight who died on Tuesday morning at the age of 92.

Peet said: “Some of the players won’t understand the magnitude of the game they played in tonight. It’s about understanding that the game means a lot of things to a lot of people, and you have that responsibility.

“I think this game does a great job of remembering those who have come before us, and it’s important to mention how respectful the other clubs have been, including the Hull KR players and staff, which is indicative of the respect Billy has.

Wigan paid their respects to the late, great Sir Billy Boston. (Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com)

“I think the night was certainly fitting. I also think it’s important that it’s not just left this evening, and I know it won’t be. I know Billy Boston is in every sense of the word a legend, like a mythical character, and it’s important we continue to do him proud.”