‘Magic Round’ Highlights: British Players Shine in Thrilling NRL Action
The 2024 ‘Magic Round’ in the NRL has come to a close, and it was a weekend to remember for several British players. England international Dom Young continued his impressive scoring streak, while Burnley-born Herbie Farnworth grabbed an assist for the Dolphins.
In the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ narrow 28-22 loss to the North Queensland Cowboys, Tom Burgess made a 26-minute appearance off the bench, running for 83 meters from 10 carries. Farnworth, meanwhile, played the full 80 minutes as the Dolphins secured a 24-12 victory over the Wests Tigers, making 135 meters and recording an 87.5% tackle efficiency.
Standout Performances
“It was a memorable ‘Magic Round’ for the British contingent in the NRL, showcasing their talent and contribution to the league.”
Scotland international Bailey Hayward featured for 42 minutes for the Canterbury Bulldogs in their 24-20 defeat to the Canberra Raiders, making 69 meters and 19 tackles. Hayward’s teammate, Huddersfield-born Max King, was the joint-top tackler in the game with 46 tackles.
Kai Pearce-Paul returned to the Newcastle Knights’ starting lineup, playing the full 80 minutes in their 28-24 win over the Gold Coast Titans. The young forward made 47 tackles with an impressive 92% tackle efficiency.
In the Sydney Roosters’ thrilling 38-30 loss to the Cronulla Sharks, England international Victor Radley featured for 54 minutes, making 16 runs and over 96% tackle efficiency. Teammate Dom Young continued his scoring streak, crossing the line twice to take his tally to eight tries in eight appearances this season.
Other standout performances came from Morgan Smithies of the Canberra Raiders, who was his team’s top tackler with 40 tackles at a 97.56% efficiency rate, and Halifax-born Max Smithies, who made 74 meters from eight carries.
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