The strong army of travelling supporters have done their part in Las Vegas. Now it’s over to both Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos to put on the biggest show on the global stage.
The electric party events – all the glitz and glamour – are over, for now, for the playing stars. It’s down to business. Both Willie Peters and Brad Arthur told their players to embrace the spotlight in the entertainment capital of the world. But on the field, it has been all about hard work and preparation: representing Super League at Allegiant Stadium – and securing the two points on offer.
On Friday, Leeds had the first opportunity to familiarise themselves with the 65,000-capacity NFL stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Next up were North Queensland Cowboys, followed by Hull KR.
As Rovers entered the field, Elliot Minchella called the staff and squad together for a moment of unity in a huddle – a moment of calm after a week of chaos, from official fan launches at Resorts World Vegas, multiple signing sessions to the thrill of Fremont Street, where 16,000 supporters descended on the entertainment district.
After the team talk, players split up to get a feel for the stadium – many with their shoes and socks off. One star explained it was about “balancing with the ground”, a phrase that carried deeper meaning. Having been on top of the world last week before jetting to the States, it seems fitting that Hull KR still want to – quite literally – stay grounded ahead of the biggest stage.
Hull KR at Allegiant Stadium ahead of Saturday’s game day.
Tom Davies and Sam Luckley were among those throwing American football-style passes. Assistant coach Luke Gale took on extended media duties, while Jack Broadbent spent time on a phone call before stepping into the spotlight in the absence of Arthur Mourgue – another opportunity for the versatile back to shine.
Earlier that morning, the squad were surprised by a couple of legends at their base. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Shaun Kenny-Dowall had made the journey and received a huge reception from a stunned Robins squad. Only in Vegas can you see stars of that stature strolling the streets, with Brian Carney catching up with the pair outside Hull KR’s fan pre-party event that evening.
Clint Newton was among those to address the crowd – 600 tickets sold – labelling Hull KR’s following the best fans in the world, while praising the club’s journey, heart and character.
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The thrill of the week has led to this point. More than 40,000 rugby league fans have helped take over Vegas in a week nobody will forget. Today, they will finally see their stars perform.
The scoreboard offered a glimpse of what could be earlier in the week – 20-10 to Hull KR. In Vegas, anything can happen.