Ian Golden reviews the weekend’s action in matches that featured Wales internationals and hopefuls. Pic: SW Pix
Leeds Rhinos secured third place in the Women’s Super League final table after beating fourth-placed Wigan Warriors 24-0. Bethan Dainton was once again part of the Rhinos side, with Carys Marsh starting for Wigan. Leigh Leopards missed out on top spot in Super League Group Two after a close defeat at home to Barrow Raiders, who finished second. Keira McCosh was in the Leigh side. In the men’s Super League, Gil Dudson came off the bench for Warrington Wolves in their golden point defeat at Salford Red Devils. In the Super League academy, George Birch couldn’t prevent a London Broncos loss at home to Hull Kingston Rovers.
🙌 THE @NWCrusaders COMPLETE THE COMEBACK!@Six_Again | @TheRFL
— The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) September 10, 2023
— North Wales Crusaders (@NWCrusaders) September 11, 2023
Rob Massam‘s career has been extended by yet another week after North Wales Crusaders won 13-12 away at Oldham, coming back from 12-0 down and securing their place with a dramatic late drop goal from Tom Hughes. It was the second week in a row that they came back from behind to win a play-off match away from home. They now travel to Hunslet in next week’s League 1 play-off semi-final where Doncaster await the winners in the final.
In the Championship, Featherstone Rovers sent Newcastle Thunder down on Friday night. Caleb Aekins and Craig Kopczak starred in their 56-22 win with Curtis Davies in the Thunder side. London Broncos’ good form continued as they hammered Widnes Vikings 52-12. Dalton Grant was in the London line-up with Matty Fozard starting for Widnes. Ben Evans came off the bench for Barrow Raiders to help them beat Swinton Lions. Mike Butt, Rhodri Lloyd and Lewis Hall were in the Lions starting 13. Men’s side skipper Elliot Kear helped Batley Bulldogs beat Whitehaven, who fielded Connor Holliday. Bradford Bulls, starring Chester Butler, lost at home to York Knights.
In the NRL, Newcastle Knights’ season continues after their extra-time win over Canberra Raiders. Bradman Best and Tyson Frizell both played a big part in the victory. They now travel to New Zealand Warriors this Saturday.