Rugby League: The Art of Goalkicking Mastery in Super League
The art of goalkicking has become a defining factor in the incredibly competitive 2024 Super League season, where fine margins separate victory and defeat. With numerous one-score or even one-point games, as well as a golden point draw, the ability to turn four into six has been crucial in determining the outcomes.
Super League has witnessed a host of players who have mastered the art of goalkicking over the years, with names like Andy Farrell, Kevin Sinfield, and Paul Deacon often mentioned among the all-time greats. Sinfield leads the way statistically with an impressive 1,566 points, largely due to the prolific try-scoring nature of the teams he played for.
When it comes to the current season, the focus shifts to kick percentage and clinical execution, with a minimum of 25 attempts required to qualify for consideration. While the likes of Adam Keighran have been impressive, with a 91% conversion rate from 23 kicks, the top five goalkickers in Super League this season have stood out.
5. Josh Thewlis (Warrington Wolves) – 78% (25/32)
Despite playing for a high-scoring Warrington side, Thewlis has managed to maintain a solid 78% conversion rate, with Stefan Ratchford also taking kicking duties at times.
5. Harry Smith (Wigan Warriors) – 78% (32/41)
Sharing the kicking responsibilities with Adam Keighran, Smith has a slightly lower success percentage than Thewlis but has converted more kicks overall, reflecting Wigan’s prolific try-scoring.
3. Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos) – 85% (35/41)
The versatile Leeds forward has been a reliable goalkicker, and his 85% success rate was previously the record that Ratchford aimed to surpass.
2. Arthur Mourgue (Catalans Dragons) – 87% (40/46)
Mourgue’s kicking prowess has been crucial for the Catalans Dragons, who have not been the highest try-scorers this season. His ability to turn four into six has been a valuable asset for the team.
1. Marc Sneyd (Salford Red Devils) – 93% (39/42)
The obvious choice for the top spot, Sneyd has firmly established himself as one of the finest goalkickers in Super League’s recent history. His 93% conversion rate has been instrumental in Salford’s success, with several narrow victories secured by his reliable boot.
“The art of goalkicking has become a defining factor in the incredibly competitive 2024 Super League season, where fine margins separate victory and defeat.”
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