“Mark my words” – Blake Austin with determined message after Leeds Rhinos’ defeat to St Helens

The 2022 Super League Grand Final didn’t go the way Leeds fans wanted.

It didn’t get off to a great start when eventual Man of the Match Jonny Lomax dummied through and set up Matty Lees for the opening try just two minutes into the game.

A dominant first half from the Saints then yielded a second try as Jon Bennison grounded a Jack Welsby grubber. Meanwhile second half tries from centres Konrad Hurrell and Mark Percival saw the Saints claim a fourth consecutive title.

However, Leeds showed some glimpses of what makes them a superb side under Rohan Smith with lovely tries from Kruise Leeming and Rhyse Martin at the ends of both halves.

Leeds are a young side with young men like Jarrod O’Connor, Mikolaj Oledzki, Cameron Smith and Sam Walters playing key roles as Leeds made it to Old Trafford against the odds after being second bottom in April.

With Smith in charge, who has made a massive impact at Headingley getting Leeds to play great rugby and show great resilience, there is a chance that the next few years could be successful for the Rhinos and that’s the thoughts of Blake Austin who believes he will win at Old Trafford before his career is over.

He said on Instagram: “Saints to good, well done. Best experience, tough result. My kids loved me being there but, mark my words, my son will see me win at Old Trafford. Love this team. Thanks Leeds Rhinos fans.”

It could be an interesting next few years for Leeds and Austin. The former Warrington halfback will certainly still be at Leeds next year after extending his deal to 2023 earlier this year.