The new season is edging closer. The bulk of the off-season transfers have also been completed, meaning that all eyes are firmly on the start of the season, and that of course brings hope and expectation for fans as they dream of seeing their side win a Grand Final or the Challenge Cup; but whilst there is plenty of excitement there is also pressure on some teams.
This season already looks to be an exciting year, with plenty expected from each team. This of course breeds pressure from the fans, as they demand an improved showing, but pressure can also come from success as fans hope their club can build on previous success to turn it into something bigger, or even begin a dynasty.
So, with this in mind, here are the three Super League teams under the most pressure ahead of the 2024 campaign:
Leeds Rhinos
The glaring option for this list, but the Rhinos come into 2024 with plenty of pressure on them. Last year’s campaign was incredibly inconsistent, and as a result they dropped out of the Challenge Cup early and missed out on the play-offs. The Headingley faithful will be demanding improvements this time around. Rohan Smith has already cited his desire for silverware in 2024, and this will match the aspirations of the fans. Furthermore, the club have made some fantastic signings-in particular Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers-but this again will put pressure on them as it is fully Rohan Smith’s team. This team is now built to match the Smith blueprint, but that will only add pressure for them to deliver. The statement signings are a huge indication of the Rhinos aspirations, but they now need to match this on the pitch.
Wigan Warriors
The Warriors come into this year as Champions, and that will put a huge target on their backs this year. Much has been made about their transfer dealings this winter, with the likes of Kruise Leeming, Luke Thompson and Sam Walters all forming an immense looking pack, but they join an already star-studded squad-with current reigning Man of Steel Bevan French the headline player. Wigan’s League Leaders Shield triumph and Grand Final victory join the Challenge Cup they lifted in 2022, which has left many Wigan fans-and pundits alike-believing this is start of potential Cherry and White dynasty under Matty Peet, so the challenge for his side will be if they can manage that expectation.
Huddersfield Giants
Another West Yorkshire side who didn’t deliver what fans expected of them in 2023. Huddersfield Giants were tipped by many to be challenging for silverware last season following fantastic signings; however they really struggled to find the level of performance needed, and ultimately ended up in ninth. The Huddersfield supporters will be expecting a lot more from Ian Watson’s side this season. They have made some huge signings, such as bringing in Hull FC duo Andre Savelio and Adam Swift, but this was also the case last year and the team struggled to click until it was too late to make the play-offs. Ian Watson will be hoping this side will live up to the expectations he and the fans will have, but avoiding a repeat of last year is a must.
