Sutcliffe Snatches it
Leeds youngster Liam Sutcliffe scored with two minutes left as the Rhinos snatched victory against Salford at Headingley. The Red Devils had equalised after Logan Tomkins barged over and Gareth O’Brien converted, before Sutcliffe finished off a flourishing breakaway move for Brian McDermott’s men to send the hosts in front.
The game provided some entertainment throughout the first half, but really came to life in the second forty minutes as a fantastic finish saw Leeds earn two vital points in their first home game of the season.
Attacking quality from the Rhinos
Liam Sutcliffe’s last-gasp try for his side encapsulated Leeds’ attacking quality on Friday evening. Ryan Hall opened the scoring for the home side, leaping above opposite number Greg Johnson to put Leeds in front.
German Jimmy Keinhorst was also went over, holding off the Salford defence after benefitting from a quick Rhinos break courtesy of half-back Danny McGuire.
Plucky Salford attack
Salford proved once more that they could well challenge any team in Super League with their impressive attacking play. Robert Lui’s audacious dummy provided an opportunity for Chris Welham in the first half, shortly after full-back Gareth O’Brien also went over to score his first try.
Ian Watson’s side certainly have the capability to push any side close this season and have proved they can grind out wins after their round two victory over Huddersfield.
Defensive mistakes from Leeds
While Leeds were potent in attack, they lacked defensive quality throughout. Missed tackles cost the Rhinos points as Lui and O’Brien dummied to set up and score for the visitors in the first half, before Mark Flanagan broke his opponent’s’ line to set up Logan Tomkins for the equaliser.
Brian McDermott’s side did provide good defence at times, however, including a couple of occasions where determined tackling saw the Red Devils pushed into touch. Leeds now face a tough away trip to in-form Castleford in round four, while Salford host Warrington at the AJ Bell Stadium.
Final score
Leeds 20
Tries:ย Hall (x1), Keinhorst (x1), Sutcliffe (x1)
Goals:ย Burrow (x4)
Salford 14
Tries:ย O’Brien (x1), Welham (x1), Tomkins (x1)
Goals:ย O’Brien (x1)
