Five major talking points from this weekend’s Super League action

Round five of Super League has come to a close and was full of big moments. This season’s story is beginning to shape up and we’re starting to see who is going to make a splash in 2021. It was a weekend of highs and lows for many teams but what are major talking points to take away from round five?

1. No room for racism

Whether Tony Clubb is found guilty or not of the alleged racist remark he was accused of by Hull FC’s Andre Savelio, it was a reminder that we cannot allow racism to infect our game. Time and again we see football plagued by this awful issue and on the whole I’m proud that rugby league is very rarely sullied by it. It was an awful time for the game to have to deal with something of this ilk given the social media blackout the clubs took part in as they look to push against online abuse.

2. Hull getting closer

Despite their loss, it’s clear Hull are getting closer and closer to the teams at the top. It was said in commentary on Thursday night that the Black and Whites would’ve been blown away by the Wigan attack in years gone by. But their resolve in defence was incredible as they took on the impressive Warriors. Cut out the silly penalties that cost them the game and they’ll be a team threatening Wigan and co at the top.

3. Hardaker v Connor

Many claimed that the winner of the hyped up Hardaker v Connor battle on Thursday night was Sam Tomkins. I’m not sure this is true but what should be said is that it’s very pleasing to see so many brilliant English players in a key position. It is clearly bringing the best out of them in a World Cup year and will give Shaun Wane a selection headache. Meanwhile, it adds an extra layer of spice to the competition when we can argue about who is the best. It draws eyes to the game and did so on Thursday night.

4. Greg Inglis has arrived

It was an up and down performance from Greg Inglis as he made his Warrington and Super League debut. However, it was a special occasion as one of the sport’s finest players took to the field in Super League for the very first time. He was no doubt rusty however still showed a touch of class in scoring a pivotal try. He’s going to be a special player and no doubt get more people watching the game in this country.

5. Wigan and Saints still the teams to beat

They just keep winning don’t they. It’s not always pretty but the pair keep finding ways to win games. We could be in for one hell of a title race and potentially a brilliant Grand Final rematch if the two meet again in this year’s final. They’re certainly a cut above the rest. However as the year goes on I can see the likes of Hull FC and Warrington getting closer and closer. So, perhaps the Grand Final isn’t set in stone like some people think.