In golden point extra time a controversial Rhyse Martin penalty proved the difference between Leeds and Wakefield as the Rhinos got back to winning ways. Meanwhile, Wakefield remain with just one win to their name.
Major Talking Points:
1. Leeds need to find a way to score
The way the game went, Leeds should’ve won by more. They spent the first half almost exclusively in the Wakefield 20 and yet found themselves 8-0 down after half an hour. The Rhinos had the lion’s share of territory and continually failed to find ways to score. If they are going to find a way to be a success in 2021, they need to get over the line much more.
2. Great effort from Trinity
There are two sides to every story. Yes, Leeds didn’t attack well but Wakefield defended valiantly. Trinity’s inside defence was full of energy and made it hard for the Rhinos halves to create real opportunities in the attacking red zone. If they maintain that kind of effort the wins will come.
3. Rhinos youngsters providing hope
Despite being just 17 years old, Morgan Gannon looked at home in the Rhinos pack bursting through tackles and defending well. Meanwhile, Jarrod O’Connor tackled like a demon from the first minute till the last. He also ran hard and burst tackles. At fullback, Jack Broadbent continued to impress with some good runs showing great confidence. The present isn’t so good for Leeds but the future might be.
Player Ratings:
Leeds Rhinos
27 Jack Broadbent – 8
24 Luke Briscoe – 6
4 Konrad Hurrell – 7
2 Tom Briscoe – 6
5 Ash Handley – 6
15 Liam Sutcliffe – 6
7 Luke Gale – 6
8 Mikolaj Oledzki – 8
14 Brad Dwyer – 7
10 Matt Prior – 7
11 Alex Mellor – 8
12 Rhyse Martin – 6
26 Jarrod O’Connor – 8
Substitutes
9 Kruise Leeming – 6
19 King Vuniyayawa – 7
22 Sam Walters – 6
31 Morgan Gannon – 8
Wakefield Trinity
28 Olly Ashall-Bott – 6
27 Lee Kershaw – 6
4 Reece Lyne – 7
20 Joe Arundel – 6
5 Liam Kay – 7
1 Max Jowitt – 6
7 Mason Lino – 6
10 Tinirau Arona – 7
19 Jordan Crowther – N/A
12 Kelepi Tanginoa – 8
14 Jay Pitts – 8
11 Matty Ashurst – 7
13 Joe Westerman – 8
Substitutes
15 Eddie Battye – 6
17 Chris Green – 6
30 Josh Eaves – 6
8 David Fifita – N/A
