WINGER Dave Hodgson believes Hull KR have shown they can mix it with the better teams – despite losing to both Warrington and Wigan in their last two matches.
The latest defeat saw Wigan squeeze home 21-16 at the DW Stadium, but Rovers were undermined by a couple of officiating decisions which proved decisive, particularly Josh Charnley's second try which put Warriors 14-10 up just after the break.
"Over the last few games we've shown ourselves that we can mix it with the better teams," Hodgson said.
"We have got things right with the top teams.
"We still have some work to do but we're not too far away.
"Even though we have lost our last two games, we have lost to two top quality teams.
"We are pleased we have mixed it with them when we get things right.
"They are positives we can take into our next game."
Rovers next match is the 220th derby and Hodgson is hoping to repeat his past heroics again at MS3 Craven Park on Sunday.
After Robins squandered several glorious chances at Wigan, Hodgson knows patience will be crucial against cup finalists Hull.
"Patience might be a key in the derby and our remaining games," Hodgson said.
"Craig Sandercock will have a good look at this game and go from there.
"We'll focus on the good stuff we did against Wigan and take that into the derby.
"Everyone will be pumped up for the derby because they are the games we all want to play.
"It should be a good contest and if we put that effort in against Hull we'll be alright."
Rovers lost the last derby in controversial circumstances when video referee Steve Ganson apologised for making the wrong call when he allowed Chris Green's late game-winning try to stand.
Hodgson insists revenge isn't high on Rovers' list of priorities this week.
"I wouldn't say we owe them one from the Etihad," Hodgson said. "It's a different game. It's at our place and it will be a different occasion.
"Both teams want to win the game as much as anyone else."
• ROVERS are set to complete the signing of half-back Kris Keating this week.
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