Leeds Rhinos Women displayed their dominance in the group stages of the Betfred Women’s Challenge as they secured a resounding 52-0 victory against Huddersfield Giants. Their impeccable defensive performance saw them maintain a clean sheet for the third consecutive match.
This outstanding result allowed Leeds Rhinos Women to finish at the top of their table, setting them up for the upcoming quarter-final stage of the competition.
Having previously faced off just over a month ago, with Leeds triumphing 80-0, this encounter proved to be a more challenging contest. Huddersfield Giants presented a spirited challenge, putting the Rhinos’ defence to the test.
Leeds wasted no time in opening the scoring, with Bethan Dainton crossing the line within two minutes of play. The second-rower showcased her speed and agility, sprinting from halfway to touch down under the posts. Eloise Hayward successfully added the extra points, further boosting the Rhinos’ lead.
Although Leeds persistently pressed forward, the resilient hosts managed to withstand their attacks until the eighth minute. It was then that the ball was skillfully distributed across the line to Hanna Butcher, who expertly dove over in the corner to extend the Rhinos’ advantage. Five minutes later, Mayzi Carter orchestrated a pass to send Tara Moxon on her way to secure her first try of the game. Amy Hardcastle subsequently widened the visitors’ lead with another impressive try.
The Leeds defence held firm against the Giants’ determined efforts, denying them the opportunity to breach their territory. Eventually, the Rhinos broke free, with Bethan Dainton exhibiting her lightning pace once again as she raced the length of the field to claim her second try.
A moment of brilliance came from Dannielle Anderson, who delivered an exceptional inside pass to Jasmine Cudjoe. The hooker seized the opportunity and powered through from close range, adding another try to Leeds’ tally just before halftime. Tara Moxon then wrapped up the first half with a well-timed pass from Mayzi Carter, solidifying the Rhinos’ commanding 36-0 lead at the break.
The second half commenced with Moxon picking up where she left off, completing her well-deserved hat trick just two minutes into play. Carter initiated a break upfield, igniting the Rhinos’ attack, and Caitlin Casey skillfully offloaded the ball to Moxon, who gracefully dived over in the corner.
Hanna Butcher secured her second try of the match after a skilful offload from Bethan Dainton, allowing the Rhinos’ captain to deceive the opposition and exploit a gap in their defence.
Leeds continued to apply relentless pressure, with Kaiya Glynn and Amy Hardcastle displaying their powerful running abilities, gaining significant ground for the team. Izzy Northrop, celebrating her birthday and facing her former club, capitalised on the advantageous field position to sprint clear and score under the posts. Tasha Gaines concluded an impressive performance from Lois Forsell’s team with a try in the corner, sealing their comprehensive 54-0 victory.
Leeds Rhinos Women demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork throughout the match, leaving no doubt about their status as a formidable force in the Betfred Women’s Challenge. With their eyes now set on the quarter-finals, the Rhinos will undoubtedly aim to maintain their remarkable form as they pursue further success in the competition.
