It was a memorable weekend for Leeds Rhinos’ Wheelchair Rugby League team, who won the League Leaders’ trophy for the first time in their history following a stunning 118-32 win over second place Halifax.
Having yet to lose a game so far in 2019, Rhinos saved arguably their best performance until last, coming up with a five-star performance against their West Yorkshire rivals to secure top spot in the regular-season table.
Tom Halliwell led the scoring with 5 tries and 11 conversations, whilst Ryan Richardson (7 tries, 1 goal), Nathan Collins (5 tries, 6 goals), Jodie Boyd-Ward (2 tries) and Josh Butler (2 tries) also notched for the Rhinos.
The two teams must now prepare to face each other again in the Wheelchair Rugby League Grand Final at Gillingham’s Medway Park on Sunday 21st September, the fourth consecutive season that they will meet in the final.
After defeats to Halifax in 2016 and 2017, the Rhinos gained revenge last year with a dramatic 54-44 victory to claim their first Grand Final title, just six years after forming.
However, Joshua Gardner’s side will be also looking to complete a historic treble, having booked their place in the 2019 Challenge Cup Final at EIS Sheffield on Saturday 17th August, where they will face Kent side The Argonauts.
Player-Head Coach of the Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair Rugby League team, Gardner said: “The whole team have made massive improvements on and off the pitch this season. To be at this stage of a season with a game to play, a 100% record and a place in two finals, is incredible.
“There is still hard work to be done, our focus now turns to the Challenge Cup Final next weekend against a strong Argonauts side.
“On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank all our volunteers who have helped make this season happen, and thank the Rhinos fans, players and Leeds Rhinos Foundation for their support throughout the year.
“We have two more trophies to win this season, and we plan on bringing those home.”
Live streaming of the Challenge Cup Final will be available on the Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair Sports Club Facebook page and the Our League App, Kick Off 3pm.
Follow the side on Twitter @LeedsRhinosWSC.
