Rugby League Midseason Review: How the Boot Has Decided Key Super League Clashes
As we approach the midway point of the 2024 Super League season, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the ability to convert goals has proven vital in several closely contested matchups.
On February 17th, last season’s Grand Finalists Catalans Dragons defeated Warrington Wolves 16-10 in Round 1, with all of the Dragons’ points coming via the boot of Arthur Mourgue, who converted both of their tries and added two penalties.
A week later, Salford Red Devils edged out Castleford Tigers 26-22 in a high-scoring affair, thanks largely to the impeccable goal-kicking of Marc Sneyd, who converted all four of Salford’s tries and added a penalty.
Sneyd’s boot was once again crucial as Salford secured a 17-10 victory over Hull KR in Round 3, converting both of their tries and slotting over two penalties, as well as a drop goal to seal the win.
Elsewhere, Hull FC’s 28-24 win over London Broncos in Round 3 highlighted the importance of goal-kicking, with the Broncos missing three of their five attempts, while Darnell McIntosh’s four successful conversions proved decisive for the home side.
The Robins’ 20-22 loss to Warrington in Round 4 was another game where goal-kicking proved crucial, with Warrington missing four of their five attempts, while KR missed two of their own, ultimately falling just short.
Salford’s victory over league leaders St Helens in Round 4 was also decided by the boot, with Marc Sneyd converting all four of his side’s tries, while Mark Percival missed two of his three attempts for the Saints.
Most recently, Warrington’s 16-14 win over Leigh Leopards in Round 8 was secured thanks to Josh Thewlis’ two successful conversions, as Matt Moylan could only convert one of his three tries for the Leopards.
“Clearly, the ability to consistently convert goal-kicking opportunities has proven invaluable in several closely fought Super League encounters so far this season, with Salford’s Marc Sneyd and Warrington’s Josh Thewlis demonstrating the importance of a reliable boot.”
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