Five underappreciated performances from this week’s Super League

This list looks at the players who have made huge contributions to their side, but perhaps haven’t received as much attention as they deserve.

As with every round of Super League, the fixtures are full of eye-catching moments from Super League stars, but some go under the radar due to the vast quality in Super League.

So, here’s our five underappreciated performers of the week.

John Bateman
Understandably, much of the talk after Wigan’s win over Salford has focussed on the back three, but the work from the forwards like Bateman gave them the space and ruck speed needed to make the breaks that helped them score. Despite scoring 30 points, it was only 6-0 to Wigan at half time, and this was due to relentless defence from the Warriors, of which Bateman was a key part as he neutralised Salford’s threat. Bateman, as well the likes of Liam Farrell and Brad Singleton, did a lot of important work to limit Salford’s field position and keep Wigan on top.

Tyrone May
After a huge injury blow to Josh Drinkwater, Catalans fans will feel relieved seeing the quality that Tyrone May is showing. After spending time at centre when he joined the Dragons, he has adjusted to the halfback role brilliantly. He scored a late try in his side’s dismantling of Hull FC, but his influence was clear throughout the game as he worked well with his experienced halfback partner. A player of his quality who can play in multiple positions will be a vital asset for the second half of the season.

Harry Smith
Smith has taken his opportunity brilliantly this year. Despite not being a starter for the first period of the season, he has used the game time given to him to prove that he has to start for Wigan on a weekly basis, and has made the decision for Matt Peet one that decides who partners him. He has a brilliant understanding of his side’s strengths and plays to them well. Against Salford he showed strong game management and freed up the quality on Wigan’s flanks to allow them to score so many tries.

Chris McQueen
McQueen has been one of the best players in the country this year, and it showed as he won the Lance Todd trophy two weeks ago. On Friday, he showed his quality again throughout the game, but the highlight came in the form of an 80 metre try. He intercepted the ball from a Leeds pass and showed winger-like pace to race away and score a try that very few forwards could. Each week he is proving himself to have been a fantastic signing and as well as his try scoring ability, he plays a huge role in each game he plays.

Konrad Hurrell
Konrad Hurrell divides opinion, with some fans choosing to focus on his defensive weakness, whilst others point to his devastating runs and attacking threat. Hurrell had a great second half in what looked to be a very tight game at half time, and illustrated why St Helens put their faith in him. The powerful centre made an important break which led to a Ben Davies try that put the home side two tries ahead. Just under a quarter of the game later, Hurrell scored a try of his own to put real daylight between Saints and visitors Hull KR.