Hull KR v Wakefield Trinity: Daryl Powell welcomes chance to make statement in Craven Park hothouse

Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors and St Helens are the undisputed heavyweights of Super League with 25 titles between them, while Hull KR joined that exclusive club last year with a maiden Grand Final success.

Warrington Wolves are still waiting but can point to four Old Trafford appearances.

That leaves Wakefield as the only top-six club still to prove they have what it takes to reach the season decider.

While Trinity are where they are on merit, Daryl Powell's side have yet to show they can mix it with the competition's established contenders when the stakes are at their highest.

A victory at Craven Park would not only strengthen Trinity's grip on a play-off place but also provide the sort of statement result capable of altering perceptions of their title credentials.

"They're all ticks in the box," said Powell. "I think it'd be awesome for us.

"I've been going there for years as a coach and it's always tough. It'd be big for us, 100 per cent.

"We've got to have the mentality of going to these places without any fear. You can't go and dip your toe in the water and see how hot it is because it's going to be hot.

"Get ready for what's going to come at you. They defend with intensity and come after you. There can be no dipping your toe in – just get in there.

"We've got to put ourselves into the game and attack it."

That challenge will be magnified for Myles Lawford, who is poised to make his Super League debut in one of the competition's most demanding environments.

With Jack Sinfield and Mason Lino both sidelined, Powell has turned to the rookie half-back.

"If you're making a debut, it's always daunting," said the Wakefield boss.

"He's just got to take a deep breath and do what he's been doing for years – go play a game of rugby league and be brave. I feel like he's a brave player.

"He'll be fine. The boys are there with him and for him. He's got to go and show what he's about. It's an awesome opportunity for him.

"Again, like I said with the team, don't go dipping your toe in the water or feel any fear. You can feel some fear but do it anyway."

While they have yet to beat a title rival on the road, Wakefield head to Craven Park chasing a double after seeing off Hull KR on home soil last month.

Trinity have lost only once in seven matches, setting up the chance to secure a top-four finish for the first time as a Super League club.

Rather than viewing a daunting run-in as an obstacle, Powell sees it as another opportunity to prove just how far Wakefield have come.

"It gives us a chance to knock a few teams off and show how good we can be," said Powell, whose side face each of their play-off rivals – including Leigh Leopards – in the final 10 rounds.

"Either you see it in a negative light or a positive one. For me, it's a positive.

"The challenge is there but I feel like we're growing and getting better. I think our best is to come.

"It's a great opportunity rather than anything to fear."

If Wakefield still have doubters to convince, they have already earned the respect of the reigning champions.

Willie Peters has seen enough to believe Trinity belong among Super League's leading contenders.

"They haven't surprised me," said the KR boss.

"They were similar last year and probably unlucky not to finish higher. Then they played against a very good Leigh team in the first semi. You can see they've worked on the areas they needed to.

"The top half of the ladder is very close. Leeds are the dominant team at the moment but Wakefield certainly haven't surprised me."

Rovers head into the contest two points behind Wakefield after last month's dramatic defeat at Belle Vue, a result that remains fresh in Peters' mind.

The Australian expects his players to channel that frustration into a response.

"It stung," he added.

"To work our way back and get into a winning position only to give it away at the end hurt.

"I want to see how much it hurts back here on Saturday in front of our home fans. It did sting and I know the players were hurting – but I want to see actions."