Willie Poching keen to show he is the man to lead Hull KR on an upward curve

Albert Kelly, missing in action against Widnes for Hull KR. Picture: Bruce Rollinson.

The assistant was placed in temporary charge last week following Chris Chester’s sacking and he oversaw a spirited 31-22 defeat to St Helens on Friday.

Poching, who wants the job permanently, will take the helm again as Rovers seek their first win of the season at Super League leaders Widnes Vikings tomorrow night.

However, chairman Neil Hudgell has suggested a “top-line” replacement will be in place for 2017, former England coach Steve McNamara being favourite, and “the board needs to see how he (Poching) fits into our longer term future.”

Hull KR stand-in head coach Willie Poching, pictured during his Leeds Rhinos' playing days.

Asked if he been given any further indications by the club himself, Poching said: “Not as yet.

“I’m just turning up every day doing my best for the team.

“We’ll get Friday out of the way and then deal with it.

“I want to throw my name into the hat – and any other job – if possible but at the moment I’ve got a job to do here.

“If it doesn’t pan out that way, I will still do the best job I can for this group.”

He has been dealt another blow, though, with key scrum-half Albert Kelly ruled out of tomorrow’s game with a hamstring strain, fellow half-back and captain Terry Campese still not fit enough to return to the 19-man squad either.

“Kelly hasn’t recovered quite sufficiently enough and whether he’s right for next week (Huddersfield) I’m not sure,” said Poching.

“But we’ve got a nine-day turnaround for that so hopefully we’ll get as many people back then as possible.”

Meanwhile, George Lawler, who was playing for amateurs West Hull ARLFC just 18 months ago, has signed a new four-year deal following his excellent start to the campaign.

A loose forward by trade, the 20-year-old has thrived at hooker following Shaun Lunt’s injury and John Boudebza’s ban.

Poching said: “It’s a fantastic reward for his effort but also his form off late.

“It’s a great indication to some of the young fellas coming through that local kids can be rewarded if you put your best foot forward, show willingness but also, when you get the chance, take it.

“He’s got the admiration and respect of all his peers. We asked him to play the hooking role and he stepped up, worked hard on improving his passing, running and reading of the game, showing not just an example to younger players but older players too.

“I’ve no doubt other (clubs) will have kept an eye on him as well.”