WELL that’s another round of Super League done and dusted and what a great round of action it was!
The action began on Thursday night when Hull FC hosted the Wigan Warriors with the Black and Whites hoping to stun the league leaders. And credit to Tony Smith’s side, they did just that. After racing into a 14-0 lead, Hull hung on for a priceless 14-10 win to take FC clear of the relegation place.
Wind the clock forward 24 hours and five Super League fixtures took place with Catalans Dragons hosting St Helens for the Friday night live Sky Sports game. It was fast and frenetic but the French side did enough to take the two points with an efficient 24-12 win over the reigning champions.
Elsewhere, Leigh Leopards hosted the low-on-confidence Castleford Tigers and, despite the sides being locked at 6-6 at half-time, Adrian Lam’s men turned the screw in the second forty minutes to run out 30-6 winners and make it a ninth loss from 11 games for Andy Last’s side.
If Castleford’s losses have proved concerning, then Wakefield Trinity just can’t seem to do anything right at the minute. Despite putting in a brave performance away at Warrington Wolves with the sides going into the break level at 12-12, Wakefield couldn’t pull off a stunning win as Daryl Powell’s men triumphed 32-18.
Meanwhile, Salford Red Devils travelled to Headingley to take on Leeds Rhinos with both sides hopeful of making the top six play-offs at the end of the season. However, there looked to be just one winner from the outset as the Red Devils took home the two points with a 22-12 victory.
If Leeds were poor, then Huddersfield Giants were pretty much woeful in their away trip at Hull KR. Willie Peters’ side have been the surprise package in Super League in 2023 and they were magnificent in a 28-0 drubbing of Ian Watson’s men.
But, what was League Express’ Super League Team of the Week?
1. Davy Litten – Hull FC
Talk about stand up and be counted from the young Davy Litten with the fullback putting in a memorable performance at fullback in the win against Wigan on Thursday night.
2. Matty Ashton – Warrington Wolves
After signing a new long-term deal, Matty Ashton continues to impress for Warrington and the winger grabbed another two-try haul.
3. Matt Ikuvalu – Catalans Dragons
Talk about making your entrance with a bang! Matt Ikuvalu debuted for Catalans on Friday night against St Helens and produced a stellar display.
4. Tom Opacic – Hull KR
Another great night for the Rovers recruit with Tom Opacic having a blinder in the centres in the big win over Huddersfield on Friday night.
5. Ryan Hall – Hull KR
Like a fine win, Ryan Hall gets better with age. His barnstorming display against Huddersfield will live long in the memory – particularly with his interception try for good measure.
6. Jez Litten – Hull KR
Not a first-choice halfback by any means but Jez Litten was superb for Hull KR against Huddersfield in the halves on Friday night.
7. Jake Clifford – Hull FC
When Hull FC needed their main men to stand up and Jake Clifford did just that against Wigan with a massive performance on Thursday night.
8. Chris Satae – Hull FC
Chris Satae dominated the Wigan pack on Thursday night, putting in some massive runs and big hits in defence.
9. Danny Walker – Warrington Wolves
In the absence of Daryl Clark, Danny Walker had a great game at hooker in the win over Wakefield.
10. Tom Amone – Leigh Leopards
Won Player of the Match for Leigh in their 30-6 demolition of Castleford and continues to prove just how much of a shrewd buy he has been for Leigh.
11. Ben Currie – Warrington Wolves
Looks to have a new lease of life at Warrington in 2023 as Ben Currie dominated the Wakefield side down his edge on Friday night.
12. James Batchelor – Hull KR
Returned from suspension with good effect for Hull KR, dotting down twice in the big win over Huddersfield.
13. John Asiata – Leigh Leopards
An absolute warrior for Leigh, John Asiata once more ran his blood to water in an accomplished 30-6 win over Castleford on Friday night.
Substitutes
14. Marc Sneyd – Salford Red Devils
Pulled the strings in Salford’s important 22-12 win over Leeds on Friday night, kicking five goals with the boot.
15. Oliver Partington – Salford Red Devils
Made his mark felt against a big Leeds pack on Friday night with some important tackles and hit-ups.
16. Josh Thewlis – Warrington Wolves
Almost had a hat-trick for Warrington but his third effort was ruled forward.
17. Tom Davies – Catalans Dragons
Enjoying a superb season in the south of France as Tom Davies grabbed another two tries in the win over St Helens.
