The Leeds Rhinos secured a significant victory against Hull KR, winning 34-8 at Headingley. This result further solidified the Rhinos’ position at the top of the Super League table, moving them two points clear of their rivals. The match was also a dedicated motor neurone disease (MND) awareness fixture, featuring pre-match tributes to former player Rob Burrow, two years after his passing.
Maika Sivo was a key player for Leeds, scoring two tries during the game. These scores increased his season total to 27 Super League tries, marking his 15th try in an unbroken nine-game scoring streak. Sivo’s performance included touching down on either side of half-time, contributing to the Rhinos’ 18-2 lead at the break.
The game saw Chris Hankinson score Leeds’ first try, with Jake Connor converting two of his three first-half penalties. Connor, wearing the number 7 shirt, a number famously worn by Burrow, played a pivotal role, providing two assists for tries by Hankinson and Sivo. He also scored a try himself before the hour mark.
Rhinos’ Dominant Performance
Leeds’ dominance was evident throughout the match, particularly after a competitive opening half-hour. Hull KR’s Rhyse Martin was sent to the sin-bin, which further opened the door for Leeds to extend their lead. Connor capitalised on this, setting up Sivo’s second try with a clever kick, which brought the score to 24-2.
Despite a try from Noah Booth for Hull KR, Leeds maintained their control. Connor then scored his own try, capitalising on an error from the Hull KR defence. The victory was rounded off by Ash Handley, who completed another team try for the Rhinos, securing their fifth consecutive Super League win.
The match was played in front of Leeds’ largest Super League crowd in six years, adding to the emotional significance of the evening. Coach Brad Arthur praised his team’s bravery, stating they were brave for Rob and his family. He noted the team’s ability to withstand early pressure and push through, while also acknowledging room for improvement.
Impact on Title Race
This victory serves as another strong statement of Leeds’ title credentials. Following a win against Warrington last week, this dominant performance against the defending champions, Hull KR, for the second time this season, positions Leeds as strong contenders for the title. They are now six points clear of Hull KR in the standings.
Hull KR coach Willie Peters acknowledged his team’s struggles, noting that they were second best in many aspects of the game, similar to their previous encounter with Leeds in Las Vegas. He highlighted the need for his team to understand why these performances are occurring, despite showing some fight and physicality.
The Rhinos’ performance, particularly that of Jake Connor, has led to discussions about his potential inclusion in the England squad for the World Cup later this autumn. Sivo’s try tally for the season is also approaching Denny Solomona’s all-time record of 40 tries in a Super League season.
The Betfred Super League has several key dates approaching, including Magic Weekend from July 4-July 5, and the Rivals Round reversed from July 23-July 26. The Elimination Play-offs are scheduled for September 19-September 20, with the Play-off semi-finals on September 26-September 27, leading up to the Grand Final on October 3.
Source: bbc.co.uk