Leeds Rhinos Women 24 Wigan Warriors Women 0

By Sam Brocksom

Fresh off an incredible comeback victory over St Helens last time out, Lois Forsell’s side continued their good run of form with a 24-0 win over Wigan Warriors Women. There were two changes from the side that crossed the M62, with Sophie Nuttall and Amy Hardcastle returning to replace Alice Costello and Tara Moxon.

It was a frustrating opening quarter for the Rhinos as despite plenty of chances, none came to fruition, the best chance coming from Sophie Nuttall. Caitlin Casey’s high bomb was collected by Amy Hardcastle, who managed to find Nuttall in a tricky position. The fullback cut back inside and looked to have found a gap, but it was great defence from Wigan to keep her out.

It took just under half an hour for Leeds to break the deadlock, Amy Hardcastle crossing for her 15^th try of the season. A wigan error gave the Rhinos a scrum 10 metres out, and the ball was shifted right to the England international, who powered her way over the line. Hulme missed the conversion and the scores remained 4-0 for the rest of the half.

The second half started just like the first with the Rhinos dominating possession, however not being able to put it to good use. Hanna Butcher was held up twice before a break from Jenna Greening saw her put Sophie Robinson over for a certain try if not for an excellent cover tackle from Wigan fullback Beri Salihi.

Leeds eventually found some try-scoring form through a spectacular try from Zoe Hornby. On the last tackle the ball found itself in the hands of the prop forward. With nothing on, she kicked the ball through to herself, regathered and crossed under the posts. Hulme was on target with the conversion.

It was then the Rhinos began a run of tries in quick succession. Casey’s grubber was deflected back to the halfback, and it was an easy put down for the 19-year-old.

Hornby then added her second of the afternoon after a powerful charge through the Wigan defence to crash over the line. Hulme was again on target and the Rhinos led by 20.

The final action of the half came from Amy Hardcastle, who added her brace. The ball was shifted right and the ball went to ground. She collected and used speed and strength to give the Rhinos their fifth try, and the victory.

The Rhinos will head to St Helens in the Betfred Women’s Super League semi-final, in what will be yet another thrilling and close contest.

Sophie Nuttall, Sam Hulme, Amy Hardcastle, Sophie Robinson, Tasha Gaines, Caitlin Casey, Hanna Butcher, Zoe Hornby, Keara Bennett, Izzy Northrop, Lucy Murray, Elle Frain, Bethan Dainton. Subs: Bella Sykes, Beth Lockwood, Kaiya Glynn, Jenna Greening.

Tries: Amy Hardcastle x2, Zoe Hornby x2, Caitlin Casey

Goals: Sam Hulme 2/5