Thrilling Challenge Cup Action Marred by Injuries
This past weekend’s Challenge Cup games delivered thrilling rugby league action, but unfortunately also saw several Super League stars sustain significant injuries.
The action kicked off on Saturday evening as Hull KR avenged their defeat in last year’s final by knocking out holders Leigh Leopards, rallying in the second half to secure a 26-14 victory. The real shocker of the round came later that night, as Huddersfield Giants put on a dominant 34-6 display to win on the road against Catalans Dragons, earning a semi-final spot for the second time in three seasons where they’ll now face Warrington Wolves.
“Sam Burgess’ debut year as Warrington’s head coach continued to impress, as his side showed true grit to overcome St Helens 31-8, recovering from an 8-7 deficit at halftime. Captain George Williams delivered a standout Man of the Match performance, capping it off with a try as Warrington ran in four unanswered second-half scores.”
Earlier on Saturday, Wigan Warriors cruised to a 60-6 win over Castleford Tigers, a game that prompted Castleford’s Craig Lingard to criticize his team’s defensive attitude. The two sides will meet again in Super League this week, with the Tigers hoping for a drastic improvement.
Injury Concerns
While the four semi-finalists were determined, the weekend was not without its injury concerns. Perhaps the most significant was the “horrific” lower leg injury sustained by Wigan’s Willie Isa, who was stretchered off the field. Wigan later confirmed Isa had suffered a “fracture dislocation injury to his ankle”, but stated he was “in good spirits” and will undergo further assessments this week.
Castleford’s Joe Westerman also struggled with a persisting calf injury, while Leigh Leopards revealed that Robbie Mulhern and Gaz O’Brien are both expected to be out for six weeks with calf tears, adding to the club’s lengthy injury list this season.
🔗 Source
