HULL KR: Fixtures give focus for Morgan

HULL KR coach Justin Morgan says knowledge of the club's 2010 fixture list will help intensify training as excitement builds towards the new season.

And he said he was delighted to see his side handed a home game on the opening day – the first time since their first-ever Super League fixture in 2007.

On that historic occasion, Rovers beat John Kear's Wakefield side 14-9 thanks to Ben Cockayne's 77th-minute try.

And with KR coming into the new season on the back of a fourth-place finish in 2009, Morgan expects there to be similar expectation and excitement when Rovers host Salford on Sunday, February 7.

"Hopefully we can replicate the atmosphere from that Wakefield game, and more importantly the result," Morgan, Super League's longest-serving coach at his current club, told the Mail.

"With a bit of luck, we won't leave it so late to win the game either."

Morgan added: "I'm looking forward to the start of the season because it's such a long wait.

"All games are difficult in Super League and next season will be no different.

"Every team will be looking to improve and therefore whoever you play at the start will be tough.

"Over the last few years, Salford have generally started well.

"After that we go to Wigan who have a new coach, and that will be interesting.

"Now that we know who we are playing at the start of the season, the focus in training will intensify."

While fans may not be happy with trips to Leeds, Perpignan and London on successive weekends around Easter, Morgan has accepted the hand dealt to his club.

"It's got to be done at some stage," he said.

"We are experienced enough now with our travel plans and they are more or less set in stone.

"This is our fourth season in Super League and while there are logistical issues, we'll be okay.

"We travelled to Harlequins last season after playing on a Monday and we went on to win that game. The travelling won't be an issue."

Morgan, like every Rovers fan, admits he looked for the home derby with Hull FC when the fixture list was first placed before him.

As expected, it will take place on Good Friday, this time at Craven Park.

With two derbies a season instead of the four in recent years, Morgan is relishing the Craven Park meeting.

"It promises to be a good game on Good Friday," he said.

"I think everyone involved in rugby league looks out for the Hull derby because they are great occasions.

"Next year will be no different for both clubs.

"Hull have bought good players and with that they will have renewed confidence."

Morgan confirmed Rovers will play Doncaster on January 22.

The game will feature a lot of the younger players in Morgan's squad.

For Charlie Mullan's thoughts on the Four Nations click here