Leeds Rhinos Secure Top Spot with Victory Over Bradford Bulls
The Bradford Bulls faced Leeds Rhinos in their first Super League encounter in nearly 12 years.
Tries: McDonnell, Bird, Handley, Jenkins
Goals: Connor 4
Leeds Rhinos claimed a derby win against Bradford Bulls at Odsal, moving to the summit of the Super League table. This victory allowed Brad Arthur's team to overtake Wigan Warriors, who were defeated earlier on Friday by a revitalized St Helens side.
Waqa Blake initially put the Bulls ahead, but James McDonnell responded by grounding his own kick, leveling the score after 25 minutes. Connor Wynne restored Bradford's lead just before halftime, but Leeds struck back with tries from Jack Bird, Ash Handley, and Cooper Jenkins. Caleb Aekins scored a late consolation try for the Bulls.
This match marked the first Super League derby between the two clubs since August 2014, following Bradford's return to the top flight in 2026.
Match Progression and Key Moments
Bradford started strongly when Rowan Milnes executed a well-placed grubber kick that Waqa Blake capitalized on, outpacing Lachie Miller to score. However, Blake's participation was cut short due to injury, as he limped off the field shortly after.
Leeds responded quickly, exploiting a defensive error similar to Bradford's earlier lapse. McDonnell's clever kick chase allowed him to score before the Bulls could regain possession.
Despite this, Bradford remained resilient. Wynne scored in the corner following a series of lateral passes that created space, putting the Bulls back in front.
Leeds regained control early in the second half when Brodie Croft set up Bird for a try. Handley's dynamic run further extended Leeds' lead, as Bradford struggled to contain his pace.
Bradford then suffered another setback with Phoenix Steinwede leaving the field due to a suspected hamstring injury. Shortly after, Jenkins scored to put Leeds further ahead, effectively securing the win.
Aekins' late try, resulting from a set that began deep in Bradford's half, was insufficient to change the outcome.
Team Lineups
Bradford Bulls: Aekins; Wynne, Marsters, Blake, Ryan; Atkin, Milnes; Sutton, Ackers, Lewis, Fulton, Ruan, Mellor.
Interchanges: Souter, Ormondroyd, Hallas, Steinwede.
Leeds Rhinos: Miller; Sivo, Bird, Handley, Hall; Croft, Connor; Holroyd, O'Connor, Jenkins, Hankinson, McDonnell, Watkins.
Interchanges: Oledzki, Palasia, Levi, Smith.
