Why dead rubber can still put new spring in the step

Fans feel momentum is key to play-offs footy

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I have already arranged my season ticket for 2026

Becky Oxley

Age: 42

Rhinos fan for: 32 yrs

Lives: Seacroft

I certainly did not anticipate that outcome. Given the performances over the past month and our style of play, it felt like we were witnessing a completely different Rhinos team.

The squad appeared somewhat complacent. In contrast, Catalans came out fully prepared to compete. Their defense was solid and their game play was far less careless than ours.

We were clearly missing Jake Connor. We seemed directionless and our kicking game left much to be desired, and Chris Hankinson struggled on the wing.

Although we performed slightly better in the second half, things still didn't gel, and it always felt like Catalans were destined to secure the victory.

As it stands, we will face Saints at home in the first week of the playoffs but we have another match against Wigan to consider before that. It will be intriguing to see how Brad Arthur decides to approach the game in terms of team selection.

This season has passed by so quickly. I have already arranged my season ticket for 2026, as I was quick to call within three minutes of them becoming available.

I am excited to see what next season has in store, but first let's focus on wrapping up this season and finishing as strongly as we can.

David Muhl

Age: 63

Rhinos fan for: 57yrs

Lives: Leeds

Well, I didn't see that coming. I think the players picked Thursday to collectively and individually have a bad day.

It felt like Leeds had gone back to the Rohan Smith days - we didn't seem to have a clue. If ever we were reminded how much we need Jake Connor, this was it. Jack Sinfield is a player for the future but he's not there yet and certainly no Jake.