Leeds Rhinos managed a couple of late tries, but were left to focus on the league after a 22-14 defeat at St Helens tonight.
Leeds competed well in the first and final quarters, but three quick-fire tries in the second half, after the hosts had led only 6-2 at the interval, ended Rhinos’ Betfred Challenge Cup dream. Here’s how their players rated.
Lachie Miller
Obviously felt the pace in his first game since last September, one knock-on and a couple of nice touches.6
Riley Lumb
No chances, didn’t do anything wrong 5.
Harry Newman
A good run led to the penalty which gave Leeds the lead, forced a drop out with a kick, scored a well-taken try 7.
Ash Handley
Scored Leeds’ try, one good run 5
Ryan Hall
No chance to score, but made his usual strong carries 5
Brodie Croft
Never got into the game; is trying hard, but it’s not quite happening at the moment 4
Jake Connor
Set up the first try with a kick, one superb ball-and-all tackle, had a decent game 7.
Mikolaj Oledzki
Strong first stint, but the opposition pack was dominant 5
Andy Ackers
Worked hard, knocked-on just before the break and immediately picked up an injury which ended his night 5
Cooper Jenkins
A penalty led to Saints’ first try, solid enough if nothing spectacular 5.
James McDonnell
Defended well in the first half, worked hard but no breaks 5.
James Bentley
Did well to play on after an early knock; held up over the line battled really hard 7.
Keenan Palasia
Couple of decent passes, hit hard in the first half 5.
Subs
Sam Lisone
Poor pass which wasn’t taken let Saints off the hook and led to their important second try 5.
Jack Sinfield
Came on just before the break as acting-half, did all right 5.
Morgan Gannon
A couple of knock-ons, one not his fault, but worked hard and went close once 6
Tom Nicholson-Watton
Got on for the final 13 minutes for his first Leeds Rhinos appearance of the season 5.
