Leeds Rhinos legend Danny McGuire has surprisingly become one of the pundits questioning the Rhinos’ credentials in 2024.
Many have tipped Leeds for success in 2024 after the signings of Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers among others.
However, on Sky Sports McGuire tipped the Rhinos to lose their opening fixture to Salford Red Devils which led to some derision after the game as the Sky team interviewed Man of the Match Ash Handley.
Before the game, McGuire had raised the issue of whether Leeds’ pack is good enough to compete as he put plenty of pressure on Mikolaj Oledzki saying he needed a good season for the Rhinos to be able to compete.
So, the question now is: do Leeds have the strength in their pack to claim the Super League title?
Leeds Rhinos claim round one win
Leeds Rhinos will once again appear on Sky Sports Main Event. – Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 16/02/2024 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 1 – Leeds Rhinos v Salford Red Devils – AMT Headingley, Leeds, England – Leeds Brodie Croft. Leeds AMT Headingley England Copyright: x xSWpix.comxt/axPhotographyxHubxLtdxAllanxMcKenzie/SWpix.comx SWP-2366-0022
It was round one delight for Leeds Rhinos as Rohan Smith’s side secured a 22-16 result against Salford Red Devils at AMT Headingley.
In a contest where both sides fought tooth and nail, Sam Lisone scored the match-winning try to give the Rhinos their perfect start to the new season. Flyer Ash Handley added two tries too in a great solo performance, whilst Rhyse Martin was on target with the boot.
The Rhinos handed full debuts to six of their off-season acquisitions, including Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers against their former club. Matt Frawley and Lachlan Miller also ran out in Super League as Leeds players for the first time as well as forward Mickael Goudemand. Rhinos fans were also treated to seeing Paul Momirovski for the first time on the field since the centre arrived from the NRL as he partnered birthday boy Ash Handley.
Salford centre Nene Macdonald faced his former club, having moved from Leeds to the Red Devils in the off-season. He was one of four names that made their debuts in Salford colours.
With the home crowd behind them, the Rhinos claimed the win with Sam Lisone scoring the winning try in the 71st minute after a brilliant brace from Handley.
