LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a gripping encounter on Thursday, the Leigh Leopards fell short in their bid to rise to second place in the Betfred Super League, as they were defeated by the Leeds Rhinos, 22-14.
Leigh started strong at Leigh Sports Village, with early tries from Umyla Hanley and Keanan Brand giving them an initial lead. However, Leeds quickly responded, turning the tide with tries from Lachlan Miller and Sam Lisone.
James Bentley then extended Leeds' lead, putting the Leopards in a precarious position. Though Brand scored again for Leigh, which kept the contest close, Brodie Croft's late try secured the victory for the Rhinos.
This win propelled Leeds into fourth place, maintaining their pursuit of a top-two finish that offers an automatic semi-final berth.
Leeds began with strong intentions and almost took an early lead when Croft touched down a kick from Lachlan Miller. However, the video referee intervened, overturning the try and disrupting the Rhinos' early momentum.