HULL KR’s two-try semi-final hero James Batchelor insists his team are not happy just to get to Wembley – they have to go on and win the Challenge Cup final.
Batchelor’s brace in the first half helped the Robins defeat Catalans Dragons in York and secure their place in the decider on June 7.
“It’s good to get the win and get back to Wembley, as you’ve got to be back there to win it,” he said.
“But ultimately we want to win it. We’re not happy with just getting there.”
Batchelor featured at left centre with Oliver Gildart injured and the forward says he his happy to continue if the outside backs if his coach wants him there.
“Maybe I’ll have to speak to Willie about changing my position!” he joked. “Wherever the team needs me, I’ll be there.”
Hull KR went into the semi-final as favourites but that added no extra pressure, according to the 27-year-old.
“I’m not really bothered who says who’s favourites,” Batchelor admitted.
“Most of the time it’s about how much money people put on you at the bookies that changes whether you’re favourite or not. We just worry about ourselves and what we do day-to-day, and focus on the games from there.
“We’ve got a really good group of blokes who stay grounded. We’re in touch with the club and what the club’s all about, which is stay humble, work hard.
“It’s a working-class club in a working-class area so it is turning up every day, working hard and improving, not getting carried away with yourself.”
The Robins reached the Challenge Cup in 2023, only to lose to Leigh Leopards in a dramatic golden point extra-time period.
Batchelor says that game remains in his team’s thoughts somewhat, and the memory will push them on.
“It’s always there in the background, driving you on when you lose a game like that,” he said.
“And a big game like that, it always drives you on. But it’s not in the forefront of your mind and we’ve got three big games in the league before we worry about the final.”
