Super League kicks off this week, and as round one ties go, there aren’t many better than Leeds Rhinos vs Leigh Leopards to begin the season.
The clash between two sides that have cemented themselves as challengers is always one to watch, and the result could end up being a deciding factor come the end of the season.
One man who is more fired up than most for this game is Ethan O’Neill, who will return to the Leigh Sports Village for the first time since moving from leopard print to blue and amber.
O’Neill played just one season for Leigh, and after originally signing for two seasons, cut his contract short and found himself moving to Leeds, in a move that caused quite a stir from fans of both clubs.
The 26-year-old is set to line-up against his former club later this week, and that is a prospect he is very much looking forward to.
Speaking to Serious About Rugby League on facing his former club, O’Neill revealed that the first game he looked for when the fixtures were released was the one against the Leopards, and he says it couldn’t have come at a better time.
He said: ““Before the draw even came out I had that circled in my mind, that was the first game I was going to be looking forward to, let alone my first game for Leeds.
“I can’t wait to go out there and play in front of the North Stand again, they were always pumping every week playing for Leigh, but I feel like it’s going to be really exciting.
“I’m expecting the crowd to be loud there, and it’ll be my first Super League game for Leeds, so it’s a big, big opportunity for me to prove myself to my teammates and the fans of Leeds, so I’m excited.”
He added: Regardless [of it being round one], it’s just exciting, it doesn’t really matter to me, I’m going to be wanting to get my hands on the ball first play, and it’s going to be a good opportunity for me to prove myself, it’s going to be really good to just get out there and play some football finally.”
Leeds Rhinos’ latest transfer pursuit, Hull FC new boy assessed and potential cup ‘upsets’ – Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show here.
Leeds Rhinos recruit explains Leigh Leopards exit
O’Neill again spoke about how his departure from Leigh came about, but insists he has nothing but respect for the club that handed him his first Super League opportunity.
“Things happen for a reason, that’s all I can say,” explained the back rower. “This was a better opportunity for myself and my career.
“My time at Leigh was outstanding, I loved my time at Leigh, there’s no bad blood or hard feelings with them. I love everyone at the club and what they do, but like I said it’s just what was best for me at the end of the day and my career going forward.”
Know your Super League? Serious About Rugby League have a Fantasy Super League comp. Join it now and compete against our writers. PIN: 12433 Password: SARL2026
