The 2024 Championship season is well underway, with the first five rounds delivering plenty of excitement and standout individual performances. As we head into Round 6, let’s take a closer look at seven players who have caught the eye so far in the second tier of English rugby league.
The Sheffield Eagles have been one of the surprise packages, winning five out of their opening five games. A key driver behind their impressive start has been half-back Cory Aston, whose orchestration and points scoring have been pivotal. The son of head coach Mark Aston, the young playmaker has already amassed 60 league points this season, showcasing his importance to the Eagles’ success.
At Widnes Vikings, Tom Gilmore has been instrumental in the club’s revival under new coach Allan Coleman. The Vikings have lost just once in their first five matches, with Gilmore pulling the strings and causing problems for opposition defenses. After a limited role last year, the 30-year-old local lad will be hoping to feature more prominently as Widnes aim to build on their strong start.
Over at Featherstone Rovers, hooker Connor Jones has continued to be a consistent performer, with his try-scoring exploits going largely under the radar. The 28-year-old, who has experience in the Queensland Cup, has already reached double figures for tries in the opening five games, underlining his value to the Rovers.
Wakefield Trinity’s Max Jowitt has been a standout in the Championship so far, with the full-back currently the division’s top points scorer. Jowitt has been ever-present for Trinity, who have won all six of their league fixtures to date, and he continues to contribute both with the boot and as a try-scorer.
Another overseas recruit making waves is Bradford Bulls’ Mitch Souter. The young Australian hooker has already caught the eye, with his performances attracting interest from Super League clubs. Souter has hit the ground running since his move to Odsal, announcing his arrival with a try in the Bulls’ first home game.
In Toulouse Olympique’s ranks, second-rower Maxime Stefani has been a rare bright spark during the French club’s disappointing start to the season. Stefani has scored four tries, including one in Toulouse’s recent defeat to Wakefield, and will be hopeful of earning a first senior France cap if his form continues.
Finally, Wakefield’s Lachlan Walmsley has picked up where he left off with Halifax, dominating the try-scoring charts in the Championship. The Australia-born Scotland international has already scored 16 tries in just 12 appearances across all competitions, underlining his deadly finishing ability.
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