Leeds Rhinos have claimed sole possession of the top spot in the Super League standings, moving two points clear after defeating their Yorkshire rivals, the Bradford Bulls, at Headingley. James McDonnell, who is departing for the Perth Bears at the season’s end, marked his 100th Super League appearance with two tries.
Despite an early lead from Bradford via a Guy Armitage try, the Rhinos maintained control. A significant setback occurred when Maika Sivo, the league’s leading try scorer, left the field with a suspected broken arm. Leeds remained unfazed, with McDonnell scoring twice, while O’Connor, Holroyd, Croft, Jenkins, and Watkins also added their names to the scoresheet. Jake Connor successfully converted all seven tries.
Bradford struggled throughout the match, suffering their sixth loss in seven games. Although Ethan Ryan provided a glimmer of hope with a try during his 200th career appearance, Leeds dominated the second half to secure the win. The victory serves as a strong recovery for the Rhinos following their previous loss to the Castleford Tigers.
