Rugby League Power Rankings: Warrington Wolves Rise to Summit (27/05/2024)
Each week this season, Love Rugby League presents our Power Rankings, highlighting the top 10 clubs in the British game with the most momentum. The 35 clubs across Super League, the Championship, and League 1 are all in contention, with the rankings solely based on on-field performance.
Our latest top 10 of the campaign considers all competitive games played so far. For Super League teams, that encompasses the opening 12 rounds and the Challenge Cup. Meanwhile, the Championship and League 1 seasons commenced in March, with clubs in those divisions also participating in the 1895 Cup and Challenge Cup prior to the league kickoff.
Without further ado, the Love Rugby League Power Rankings (27/05/2024):
1. Warrington Wolves (UP 3)
Warrington rise to the summit of our rankings after making a strong statement with a 16-8 victory over Catalans Dragons on the road. Despite two of their three defeats this year coming against the Dragons, Sam Burgess’ side delivered an impressive performance in Perpignan to sit third in the Super League table, level on points with Wigan and St Helens.
2. Wigan Warriors (-)
Wigan remain second in both the Power Rankings and the Super League standings, having comfortably secured a 26-6 away win against Salford Red Devils. The Warriors have now claimed seven victories in eight matches across all competitions.
3. Wakefield Trinity (-)
Wakefield maintain their 100% record across all competitions this season following a 30-6 triumph over Whitehaven. Daryl Powell’s side are the only team with a perfect league record in the top three tiers and have a Wembley trip in the 1895 Cup final to look forward to next month.
4. Keighley Cougars (UP 4)
Keighley have risen substantially in our rankings after defeating league leaders Oldham 28-18 at home. The Cougars have now established themselves at the top of the League 1 table, and will be eager to secure the reverse fixture against Oldham to cement their position.
5. Oldham (DOWN 4)
For the first time this season, Oldham have dropped considerably in the Power Rankings. Sean Long’s side suffered their first defeat of the campaign, losing 28-18 to Keighley Cougars. The Roughyeds now sit second in the League 1 table, two points behind their conquerors, but do have a game in hand.
6. Sheffield Eagles (-)
Sheffield retained their second-place position in the Championship with a convincing 36-13 home victory against Dewsbury Rams. The Eagles have now won seven of their last nine games in all competitions, including their success in the 1895 Cup, and have a Wembley trip to look forward to next month.
7. St Helens (UP 2)
St Helens, who have played one more game than second-placed Wigan, remain top of the Super League table on points difference after a dominant 40-10 triumph over Leeds Rhinos. Paul Wellens’ side have now won four of their last five outings, bouncing back from their earlier blip against Hull KR.
8. Toulouse Olympique (NEW)
Toulouse Olympique make their first appearance in the Power Rankings this season, following a 28-20 home victory against Widnes Vikings. Sylvain Houles’ side have now won four of their last five matches, showcasing their resurgence after a difficult start to the campaign.
9. Leigh Leopards (NEW)
Leigh Leopards also make their debut in the Power Rankings, courtesy of a 16-10 away win against Huddersfield Giants. After a poor start to the season, the Leopards have now claimed three victories in their last four matches, including a draw against Castleford Tigers.
10. Widnes Vikings (DOWN 3)
Widnes slip three places in the rankings despite sitting third in the Championship table, just a point behind second-placed Sheffield Eagles. The Vikings’ 28-20 defeat against Toulouse Olympique in France was their third loss in their last five fixtures.
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