Rugby League Results: Leeds Rhinos Scrape Past Hull FC in Tight Encounter
In a hard-fought clash at the MKM Stadium, the Leeds Rhinos narrowly defeated a spirited Hull FC side 18-12. Despite the coachless home team being bolstered by two new recruits and the impressive youngster Jack Charles, the Rhinos managed to secure the win, though the close scoreline will heap more pressure on head coach Rohan Smith.
Debutants Shine for Hull FC
Debutants Ed Chamberlain and Yusuf Aydin made immediate impacts for Hull FC, showcasing their abilities, while Leeds were forced to hand a debut to teenager Riley Lumb due to injuries in their backline. Lumb proved to be one of the few bright spots for the Rhinos, scoring a first-half brace and putting in a Man of the Match performance with his attacking flair and defensive work.
Controversial Tries and Missed Opportunities
The game started poorly for Hull, with Morgan Smith bundled into touch from the kick-off, but the home side struck first through Smith’s redemptive try. Leeds, however, hit back quickly through Lumb’s first try for the club, and the teenager would go on to double his tally in controversial circumstances just before halftime, with the video referee overturning the on-field decision.
Heading into the break trailing 12-6, Hull FC had put in an improved performance, though the Rhinos’ poor completion rate of just 10 from 19 sets in the opening 40 minutes was a concern. The visitors struck first in the second half through Cam Smith’s try, and when Matt Frawley crossed the line, it looked like the game was over. However, the video referee’s intervention once again ruled out the try, giving Hull FC a lifeline, which they took with Lewis Martin’s late score.
“Brodie Croft’s missed drop goal attempt and Frawley’s kick-out-on-the-full summed up Leeds’ erratic display, but they managed to hold on for the win, keeping them within two points of the playoff spots.”
While the Rhinos will be relieved to return to winning ways, the performance will be a concern for their supporters. For Hull FC, there are plenty of positives to take, with the team showing significant improvement under interim coach Simon Grix.
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