Rugby League Mood Table: Capturing the Sentiments of Super League Clubs
Throughout 2024, we’ll be gauging the mood across all 12 Super League clubs with our weekly mood table. While the actual league standings highlight the teams in contention, our mood table captures the prevailing sentiments around each club at this precise moment.
Starting from the bottom, let’s dive into the current mood surrounding the clubs, with their actual league positions mentioned in brackets.
12. Leeds Rhinos (7th)
Despite being just a win away from the play-off spots, the mood around the Leeds Rhinos is decidedly gloomy. Their recent on-field performances, marked by inconsistencies, have left the fans thoroughly dissatisfied. The nadir came in their dismal showing against Hull FC, where late tries added an undeserved sheen to the scoreline. Head coach Rohan Smith is now on the brink, and the fans’ frustration was evident in the chants directed at him. With another defeat looming, the mood at Headingley could further sour.
11. Huddersfield Giants (8th)
Like their West Yorkshire rivals, Huddersfield find themselves stunningly still in the play-off mix. However, their form has been erratic, with periods of promise followed by extended winless runs. The uncertainty surrounding the future of their talented player, Jake Connor, being offered on a two-week loan, has added to the general sense of mystery at the club. A crucial match against Catalans Dragons this weekend could determine whether the play-offs remain a realistic goal.
10. London Broncos (12th)
Sitting rock-bottom with just a solitary win, the London Broncos are pragmatically embracing their likely relegation back to the Championship. Yet, there’s a palpable sense of unity and togetherness within the squad, which bodes well for the future. Despite another heavy defeat against reigning champions St Helens, a near-record crowd at the Twickenham Stoop suggests the Broncos faithful are willing to stick by their team.
9. Castleford Tigers (10th)
After a disastrous start, the mood around Castleford Tigers has improved considerably under the guidance of Craig Lingard. The club’s younger players are starting to find their feet in Super League, laying the foundations for the future. While they fell just short against league leaders Wigan Warriors, the Tigers will fancy their chances of claiming the scalp of any opponent if they’re on song.
8. Catalans Dragons (6th)
Firmly in the title race not long ago, the mood in the south of France has become a little edgy. The Dragons’ recent home defeat to Leigh Leopards, where they failed to score a try, has raised concerns. With a crucial home game against Huddersfield this weekend, a win is essential to get their season back on track.
7. Hull FC (11th)
The mood around Hull FC has lifted after their long-awaited first win of the season. While the Black and Whites haven’t been a constant threat in recent weeks, the weight of that elusive victory has been lifted. With new signing Jed Cartwright arriving and the prospect of more business in the transfer market, the future is starting to look brighter for Hull.
6. Warrington Wolves (4th)
Genuine title contenders just a fortnight ago, three straight defeats have shifted the narrative around Warrington. Comparisons to last season’s mid-year collapse are inevitable, but unlikely to be as severe. The manner of their display against Salford hasn’t inspired confidence, and the Wolves will need to bounce back quickly to avoid any lingering doubts.
5. Leigh Leopards (9th)
After a nightmare start to the year, Leigh Leopards have turned the corner and are riding a wave of momentum. Preventing Catalans from scoring a try, both home and away, is a major statement of their play-off ambitions. With key players returning to fitness and their star performers hitting form, the Leopards are well-placed to bridge the gap to the top six.
4. Hull KR (3rd)
The top four clubs were closely contested, but Hull KR’s consistent performances have become an expectation rather than a surprise. They were dominant in their win over Huddersfield and another victory against Castleford this week could see them level on points with the league leaders.
3. Salford Red Devils (5th)
After their shock win over Warrington, Salford supporters are starting to wonder if the Red Devils can once again defy the pundits and experts. With the play-offs looking increasingly secure, there’s a growing belief that Salford could reach another Grand Final, especially if they can overcome the challenge of league leaders St Helens this week.
2. St Helens (1st)
The mood at both St Helens and Wigan Warriors reflects their utter dominance in Super League. The defending champions were far too good for London Broncos, cementing their position at the top of the table.
1. Wigan Warriors (2nd)
Wigan Warriors claim the top spot on the mood table, as they continue to steamroll through the competition. Their victory over Castleford came despite not being at their best, demonstrating their relentless quality. It would take a brave soul to bet against the Warriors sweeping the board once again this season.
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