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Leeds Rhinos Secure Super League Top Spot with Dominant 48-24 Win

BBC Sport •
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Leeds Rhinos claimed a commanding 48-24 victory over Toulouse in France, reclaiming the top position in the Betfred Super League. The win marked their first at Stade Ernest Wallon and their 11th of the season. Toulouse, already at 12th, couldn’t overcome a 30-0 deficit after two tries from Brodie Croft and Maika Sivo. The hosts rallied with three second-half tries but fell short as Harry Newman and Chris Hankinson sealed the result with late scores.

The first half showcased Leeds’ clinical efficiency, with Croft scoring inside four minutes and Sivo adding a second before halftime. Toulouse’s response began with Thomas Lacans’ try just before the break, but the Rhinos doubled their lead with a Harry Newman try. Post-intermission, Toulouse’s Polselli, Laguerre, and Lacans narrowed the gap to 30-24, but Leeds’ composure proved decisive. Jake Connor’s eighth conversion and Cameron Smith’s final try ensured control. Coach Brad Arthur praised his team’s “composure” after Toulouse’s resilient but ultimately futile comeback.

Toulouse’s 10th defeat of the season underscores their struggle at the bottom, while Leeds’ win solidifies their title contention. The result highlights the Rhinos’ ability to execute under pressure, contrasting Toulouse’s late surges with their inability to capitalize. For Toulouse, the focus now shifts to avoiding further drops in the standings. This victory reinforces Leeds’ reputation as one of the league’s most consistent teams, with a 10-1 record and a +15 points difference.