Five underappreciated performances from this weekend’s Super League action

With round 20 complete, we’re looking at the players who made significant contributions to their side’s performance, but have received the attention they deserve.

Bureta Faraimo
With Derrell Olpherts scoring four tries in Castleford’s win over Hull FC, Faraimo’s impressive display has been overlooked. The US international made 182 metres and scored two tries as Castleford overturned a half time deficit, eventually earning a comfortable victory. The winger kick-started the Tigers’ comeback, scoring their first two tries of the second half in which they scored 32 points to further cement their play-off spot.

George King
A lot of King’s efforts go unnoticed, he works harder than almost any other player on the pitch when he plays, and his performance in his side’s victory over Warrington was no different. He was relentless in defence, and made a huge 43 tackles to help his side to victory. His contribution was not just a defensive one, however, as the prop made 87 metres and managed two tackle breaks. His leadership also seems to boost the Robins’ performance when he comes onto the field.

Cameron Smith
With Leeds’ starting halfbacks out for their home clash against Wigan Warriors, Cam Smith was moved from loose forward to the halves. Despite being inexperienced in the position, the skilful forward looked comfortable as he commanded Leeds, left edge. He managed to get himself a try as he used the numbers on his outside to fool Wigan defenders with a dummy and crash over to the left of sticks. Utility players like Smith will be key for Leeds as they navigate a tough run in with inevitable injuries.

Chris McQueen
It was a game that ended in disappointment for Ian Watson’s side in the South of France, but McQueen was one of the best players on the pitch. He has become well known as one of the best second rowers and it’s clear to see why with his Super League try tally now up to 13 tries after he scored early in the game against Catalans. He also set up what looked to be a key try as he broke the line sent Danny Levi in under the posts. With Ian Watson sounding very ambitious, setting

Jack Ormondroyd
The former Featherstone prop has got better by the week this year, and their nervy encounter with Toulouse was yet another example. With injuries to some of Salford’s more experienced players, Ormondroyd has stepped up and impressed the fans, but with the likes of Brodie Croft, Ken Sio and Joe Burgess making the headlines, the forwards can be underappreciated. On Saturday he made over 100 metres and his efforts were key when Salford struggled to take control of the game. Despite being behind at half time, Ormondroyd and the other middles’ efforts earned them a vital win.