Season 2012

Beating super league Castleford Tigers 23-16 in Challenge Cup.

Despite a proud tradition, the Challenge Cup had long ceased being a competition that excited Rovers fans given the disparity in money and playing resources between the championship and super league clubs. In 2012 however, history was revived when Rovers defeated Castleford Tigers in a thrilling challenge cup tie at Post Office Road.  In the next round Rovers came close to an even bigger giant killing act when they lost narrowly to Wigan Warriors.  In the midst of these cup exploits, Rovers lost a couple of league games but they recovered to go unbeaten for the remainder of the season to win the league leaders shield for the third year running.  They also made the final of Northern Rail Cup for the first time but lost to old rivals Halifax at Blackpool.  The Grand Final was a repeat of 2011 but this time Sheffield Eagles defensive effort and astute kicking game proved just too much for Rovers to overcome, and they lost 20-16.

The disappointment of losing two finals took the edge of what had been a good year.  Liam Finn broke the points and goal in a season records.  Andy Kain had his best year and racked up 30 tries.  Youngsters Sam Smeaton and Greg Worthington formed an effective centre partnership.  In the pack, Matty Dale, Ben Kaye and Tim Spears went about their business in a quiet but effective way.