Hull derby to open reserve season as RFL reveals competition structures

Hull KR and Hull FC will meet during the opening weekend of the reserves competition on February 19.

The reserve rank will return in 2022 after a two-year suspension caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Hull Derby is the highlight of the first round, the same day host FC St Helens and the Rovers travel to the Huddersfield Giants in the Super League.

On the opening weekend of the Under-18 Academic Competition, March 12, Hull will face the London Broncos at home and the Robins will host the Bradford Bulls at Craven Park.

The reserve competition will be composed of 13 teams, the 12 English clubs managing licensed academies as well as the Salford Red Devils.

Each team will play 14 rounds with the grand finale taking place on September 17th.

The academy grand final will be played the following weekend at the end of a 13-round competition, which brings together the 12 English clubs holding elite academy licenses.

Full fixture lists will be confirmed in due course, with matches to be staggered to ensure that each club is never involved in a sub-first team game on any given weekend.

Dave Rotheram, RFL Field Manager, said: “I am delighted to be able to announce the fixtures and competition structures, and I thank all participating clubs for their support which has enabled us to access this position. .

“The return of the reserve rugby league alongside an academic Under-18 competition offers a full path for our developing players as they transition to senior football.

“Holding the competitions every other weekend will provide appropriate playing opportunities for all players in the academy and reserve structure.

“And with both competitions culminating in the playoffs, we are creating high pressure games at the end of the commercial season that will further contribute to player development through knockout football and stimulate fan interest.”

Reserve competition, first round

Huddersfield Giants vs. Salford Red Devils

Hull KR v Hull FC

Leeds Rhinos v Newcastle Thunder

London Broncos vs. Warrington Wolves

St Helens vs. Bradford Bulls

Wakefield Trinity vs. Castleford Tigers

Academy competition, first round

Hull FC v London Broncos

Hull KR v Bradford Bulls

Leeds Rhinos v Newcastle Thunder

St Helens vs. Huddersfield Giants

Wakefield Trinity vs. Warrington Wolves

Wigan Warriors vs. Castleford Tigers