Wigan and Leeds shared the spoils in a sensational encounter at Robin Park, which was also shown on the big screen at the DW Stadium before Wigan's Betfred Super League match with Salford. A late score saw the hosts claim a 62-all draw in a thrilling match that summed up the very best of Wheelchair Rugby League.
The lead changed hands on numerous occasions, Leeds jumping out to an early 12-point lead and leading 34-32 at the interval.
Declan Roberts led the way for the Warriors with five tries and nine goals, Martin Norris posted a try treble, Matt Wooloff landing a brace and Adam Rigby their other try scorer. For the visitors, for whom England skipper Tom Halliwell was outstanding and bagged a hat trick, Nathan Collins and Jodie Boyd-Ward also crossed three times, with Collins kicking nine goals. Josh Butler, on his return, also posted a try.
Wigan coach Phil Roberts noted: “We showed composure to get ourselves back into the game, however, we failed to complete our sets after scoring points on six separate occasions and gifted Leeds scoring opportunities. Upon reflection, a draw certainly feels more like a point dropped than a point earned.
"We'll need to play much smarter as we move into the second half of the season, but I was very proud of the effort and resilience.”
Rhinos’ player/coach James Simpson, who also claimed a four-pointer, commented: “What a game. Talk about down to fine margins. If there was ever a match that deserved a draw, it was this one.”
Halifax Panthers maintained their unbeaten start with a win at North Wales Crusaders, their fourth of the campaign, 52-86 in an entertaining clash.
Wayne Boardman, Tom Martin, Rob Hawkins and Nathan Holmes were among their try scorers, player/coach Stuart Williams again in magnificent form for Crusaders with four tries.
London Roosters claimed their biggest win of the season with a 74-18 triumph over Hull FC at Medway Park. Lewis King led the way with six tries and goals, all in the first half, Jack Lindon with a hat trick and a goal.
Ash Archer, who opened the scoring, finished with two tries, Joe Coyd, who controlled the midfield, Jason Owen – who also landed two goals – and Roosters junior Harrison Williams with his maiden score, bagging one try each.
Roosters coach, Tom Coyd, said: “There was much to be pleased about from that performance and all our players had a dig.
Lewis King was exceptional in the first half and just unstoppable. I must give credit to Hull who played very well in tough circumstances and never gave up.”
Mike Swainger scored all the visitor’s points with a hat trick of converted tries.
This week's Betfred Wheelchair Super League results
Sunday:
- Wigan Warriors 62-62 Leeds Rhinos
- North Wales Crusaders 50-86 Halifax Panthers
