CATASTROPHIC

Rhinos suffer a shock loss to end hopes of top-two finish

- BY MATTHEW SHAW

LEEDS RHINOS saw their hopes of a top-two finish come to a screeching halt as they suffered a shock defeat to Catalans Dragons.

The Rhinos were expected to win with ease against a Dragons side that has been woeful for most of the season.

But the French outfit produced a spirited performance against a frantic Leeds side, who badly missed Man of Steel favourite Jake Connor.

The halfback has been the Rhinos’ star performer this year.

Without him, they looked rudderless with the ball and wasted numerous opportunities. Not only does the defeat mean hopes of a top-two spot have been dashed, but Leeds are now at risk of finishing as low as fifth if results go against them. They are sitting third.