Halifax Panthers kicked off their season laid down a marker with double weekend home victories over Leeds and Wigan at Calderdale College.
The sensational derby clash with the Rhinos ended prematurely after two of the visiting players, Jodie Boyd-Ward and Ewan Clibbens - who attempted to valiantly play on despite a dislocated shoulder - could not continue, needing hospital treatment.
The Panthers were leading 52-44 at the time in an always intense contest, the hosts superbly led by Rob Hawkins, who crossed for four tries and landed eight goals. French international Jeremy Boursin also claimed four tries for the Panthers, Nathan Holmes with their other touchdown as they led 40-32 at the break.
Nathan Collins claimed 20 points for the Rhinos from two tries and six goals, all their players scoring, Tom Halliwell and Boyd-Ward with two tries apiece and Clibbens and James Simpson also crossing.
England international Hawkins continued in fine form the following day against the Warriors, bagging 36 points from five tries and eight goals in another close victory, 76-64, after an end-to-end encounter.
Sebastien Bechara and Thomas Martin both added a brace of Panthers tries, Wayne Boardman also getting over, whilst Boursin kicked four goals and Holmes one. For the Warriors, Martin Norris posted four tries, Declan Roberts with 20 points from two tries and six goals. Matt Wooloff, Jack Heggie and Adam Rigby all crossed twice for the visitors.
Betfred Wheelchair Super League Results:
Saturday: Halifax Panthers 52-44 Leeds Rhinos
Sunday: Halifax Panthers 76-64 Wigan Warriors
