Mark Applegarth has turned the heat up on Hull KR ahead of today's Challenge Cup tie at Craven Park, insisting there is no pressure on York Knights against the holders.

The Knights make the trip with a depleted squad after a challenging period in Super League.

York began the season with eye-catching wins over Rovers and Hull FC but have lost their last four games.

With the Robins looking more like their old selves after a demanding start, Applegarth believes the spotlight is firmly on the hosts.

"You look at what they've had to deal with in terms of the travel to Las Vegas and peaking for a World Club Challenge and all the stuff that comes with that," he said. "They've had a lot to deal with.

"They've also had to deal with the expectation shift on them. Winning all the trophies does that.

"I don't think there's an ounce of pressure on us whatsoever on Saturday; it's all on them. We can go into the game just focusing on ourselves, whereas they've got all that to worry about."

York announced themselves to Super League with a stunning victory against the Robins in round one.

York are bidding for another shock win over Hull KR. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — York are bidding for another shock win over Hull KR. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

While he acknowledges that Willie Peters' men will be out to set the record straight, Applegarth is concentrating on righting the wrongs of his side's disappointing defeat at Huddersfield Giants.

"We weren't happy with what we served up last week and want to rectify that first and foremost so we can look each other in the eye knowing we've given it everything we've got," he said.

"It's cup rugby and whoever nails that 80 minutes. We'll be going in with everything we've got.

"We're not idiots. We know that Hull KR will want to avenge that round one defeat and have aspirations – but so have we."