Gareth Ellis warns Hull KR's Super League rivals as champions target Old Trafford return

That is the message from Gareth Ellis as the defending Super League champions prepare to face Warrington Wolves in Saturday's play-off eliminator.

Rovers have struggled to hit the heights of last year's treble-winning campaign but their big-game pedigree means they cannot be discounted in the race to Old Trafford, according to Ellis.

The two-time Grand Final winner, who recently left Hull FC for a second time, is well placed to judge KR's title credentials. He believes they can rise to the challenge of going all the way from sixth.

"What Hull KR have done has been unbelievable," said Ellis.

"They've built it over a fairly short space of time. Obviously Willie Peters has been the driving force behind that, along with the ownership and the investment and backing that he's had behind the scenes. They've put a really strong squad together that competes.

"I wouldn't write them off. I know they've probably not had the season in comparison to what they did last year. They've not been quite as dominant.

"They've just made the play-offs – but they've got it in them."

KR completed the quadruple in February with a famous win over NRL champions Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge but had to wait until the penultimate round to confirm their Super League play-off place.

Last year's Old Trafford success offers encouragement as the Robins look to give departing head coach Willie Peters the perfect send-off.

"Having experienced it last year, they know what it takes to win," added Ellis.

"I'm sure they'll be hungry and Willie Peters leaving as well probably adds a little bit of spice.

"I know those players there really like Willie."