Leeds Rhinos delivered a commanding statement in their pursuit of Super League glory with a thrilling 22-14 victory over Leigh, sealed by a late try from Brodie Croft in the dying minutes of an intense contest.
The match held significant weight for Leeds beyond just league points. Speculation has swirled all season about head coach Brad Arthur’s future, with a decision expected soon on whether he’ll accept a long-term contract extension or return to Australia. His influence since arriving last summer has been transformative, lifting the Rhinos from back-to-back eighth-place finishes into genuine title contention.
If Arthur is judging his future on performances, this showing provided further proof that Leeds are a team on the rise. Sitting just two points behind second-placed Wigan with six rounds remaining, the Rhinos now find themselves within touching distance of a top playoff spot.
Leeds started slowly, with Leigh striking early through Umyla Hanley and Keanan Brand to take an 8-0 lead. However, a pinpoint 40-20 kick from Jake Connor swung the momentum back in Leeds’ favour. Tries from Lachie Miller and Sam Lisone, along with a Connor conversion, saw the visitors lead 10-8 at halftime.
The second half saw Leeds continue to press. A beautifully executed kick from Connor set up James Bentley for a crucial try, and the successful conversion extended the lead to 18-8. Leigh refused to back down, and Brand’s second try reduced the deficit to two points once more.
In seasons past, Leeds may have faltered at such a stage. But this team, under Arthur’s guidance, has developed resilience and composure. Leigh had chances to reclaim the lead Bailey Hodgson had a try disallowed and Josh Charnley missed a golden opportunity but the Rhinos held firm.
In the final moments, Miller broke free downfield, and Croft finished the move to secure a memorable victory.
While Arthur remains non-committal about his future, stating only that he “absolutely loves” his time at the club, performances like this one show that Leeds are not just rebuilding they are ready to contend. A Grand Final appearance in October is increasingly within reach.
