Leigh Leopards Secure Dominant Victory over Hull FC
Kai O’Donnell Shines with Four-Try Haul
On Sunday, Leigh Leopards showcased a dominant second-half performance, running in six tries to secure a comfortable 42-12 victory against Hull FC. The win keeps the Leopards’ faint play-off hopes alive.
Forward Kai O’Donnell was the star of the show, scoring four of Leigh’s eight tries throughout the contest. O’Donnell broke the deadlock 18 minutes into the game, bursting through a weary defensive line to cross the whitewash.
Frankie Halton then added another try for the Leopards before Hull youngsters Logan Moy and Harvey Barron responded with two quick-fire tries towards the end of the first half, leaving the sides locked at 12-12 at the interval.
“Kai O’Donnell’s four-try haul made him the first-ever Leigh player to achieve such a feat in a Super League game, and the first forward to score three or more tries in a single match for the club.”
However, O’Donnell took over in the second half, adding three more tries to his tally. Zak Hardaker (2) and Darnell McIntosh also got in on the act, with McIntosh kicking four conversions and Hardaker adding two points after the hooter.
The victory was a testament to Leigh’s resilience and attacking prowess, with playmaker Lachlan Lam at the heart of their dominant display. The Papua New Guinea international showcased his quality, constantly creating opportunities for the Leopards.
O’Donnell’s impressive performance highlighted the Leopards’ attacking firepower and the significant impact he will be missed when he returns to the NRL with North Queensland Cowboys next year.
Hull’s recent recruits from Leigh, including Zak Hardaker and John Asiata, also featured prominently, with Hardaker crossing for two tries against his future employers. Despite the lopsided scoreline, the match was a bruising encounter, with several players forced off for Head Injury Assessments (HIAs) throughout the game.
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