Rugby League: Hull KR 30 - 0 Leigh Leopards

Ruthless Rovers hands Leopards their first defeat of the season

Leigh Leopards remain second in the Super League table but suffered their first defeat of the season as Hull KR moved three points clear at the summit.

Author - Michael Haldsworth

Source | Super League YouTube

Since losing to Leigh at Wembley in 2023, Rovers have turned the tide emphatically, winning all six meetings between the sides. Remarkably, Adrian Lam’s team have failed to score in each of their last three encounters.

Rovers have built on last season’s Grand Final appearance with a powerful forward pack and a sharp, creative backline. Once again, Mikey Lewis, the reigning Man of Steel, was at the heart of their attacking play. He scored two tries, set up another, and kicked five goals in a standout performance.

But this was far from a one-man show. Rovers controlled large spells of the game and barely allowed Leigh a sight of their try line.

It was a day to forget for the Leopards, who must quickly regroup ahead of back-to-back league and cup fixtures against Wakefield Trinity.

A closer look at what happened

Rovers made a fast start and never looked back once former Leigh centre Oliver Gildart darted over on the left after just seven minutes.

With a strong wind behind them, they dominated possession and doubled their lead when Lewis pounced on a loose ball after Elliot Minchella’s drive was halted in a crowded tackle.

The pressure continued and just before half time, Lewis offloaded in the tackle for Kelepi Tanginoa to cross. Moments later, Rovers launched another sweeping move, ending with Lewis latching onto Joe Burgess’s clever inside kick to touch down. By the break, the home side had a commanding 22-0 lead.

Leigh had their moments but could not capitalise. Bailey Hodgson thought he had scored in the corner, only for his effort to be ruled out for a double movement. Umyla Hanley made a strong break but was stopped short, while Lewis produced a crucial tackle to strip Lachlan Lam of the ball near the try line.

READ MORE: Leigh Leopards 24 - 10 Huddersfield

READ MORE: Wigan Warriors 48 - 24 Warrington Wolves

Needing a quick response after the restart, Leigh made the worst possible start by immediately conceding possession. That set the tone for a second half in which they spent long periods pinned back in their own half.

Tesi Niu produced a couple of powerful runs but was unable to spark a comeback as Rovers’ defence held firm.

Lewis added a penalty goal with 15 minutes remaining before winger Tom Davies rounded off the scoring with a fifth try, which Lewis coolly converted from the touchline.

Rovers continue to set the pace at the top, while Leigh must quickly shake off this defeat and refocus on the challenges ahead.

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