After nine rounds of Super League, the battle at half-back is proving decisive with just four points separating league leaders Leeds from seventh-placed Catalans. The pivot positions have never been more critical as teams embrace an attacking philosophy with faster play-the-balls and increased scoring. The question now is whether Jake Connor and Brodie Croft can maintain their rhythm while Hull KR's Mikey Lewis and Tyrone May face their own test of consistency.

Lachie Miller emerges as the crucial difference maker, according to Sky Sports pundit Jodie Cunningham. The Leeds full-back has nine try assists - more than Connor on eight and Croft on three - allowing the half-backs less pressure in creating chances. This dynamic explains why Cunningham rates the Leeds pairing lower than some assume despite their team's position at the top of the table.

Lewis and May carry a heavier burden without such support, yet deliver. The Hull KR No.6 has nine tries and eight try assists, matching Connor's creative output while scoring himself. May has contributed 13 try assists, proving the pairing drives points directly. With free-flowing rugby defining 2026, these half-back combinations could determine who lifts the trophy at Old Trafford in October.