Featherstone Rovers redeemed themselves after last week’s disappointing performance with a commanding triumph over a weakened London Broncos side. Rovers dominated the game, scoring an impressive nine tries, while London managed to salvage a solitary score just before the final whistle.
Prior to the match, the return of Mark Kheirallah after nearly a year’s absence and Caleb Aekins assuming a new role at stand-off were the main talking points. Both players delivered outstanding performances, contributing significantly to Rovers’ success. Kheirallah showcased his prowess by scoring a try and converting seven out of eight attempts at goal. Aekins, on the other hand, opened the scoring with a skilful show-and-go move, adding another try to his name before the first half ended.
Following Aekins’ opener, Matty Wildie displayed his class by scoring his 50th career try. Joey Leilua, making a comeback from injury, elegantly sliced through the defence off Thomas Lacans’ pass to contribute another try. Lacans himself got on the scoresheet, capitalising on a well-executed team manoeuvre after McKenzie Yei deftly knocked back Aekins’ high kick. With Aekins securing his second try, Rovers established a commanding 30-0 lead by halftime.
Rovers took some time to regain momentum in the second half, and it was only after Kheirallah was sin-binned for throwing the ball away that they managed to extend their lead. Connor Jones seized an opportunity, expertly fielding Lacans’ towering kick and touching down for a try. Brad Day added to Rovers’ tally, capitalising on a slick exchange between Jones and Jack Bussey. Furthermore, John Davies burst through from inside his own half, offloading to Lacans, who in turn passed to Kheirallah for a rapid try that was celebrated by the crowd. Gareth Gale sealed the victory with a finish in the corner, leaving Rovers comfortably ahead at 50-0, before London Broncos secured a late consolation try.
Having concluded a series of three successive home matches, Rovers will now hit the road to face the York City Knights next Sunday at 3.00 pm.
