Leeds Rhinos were defeated by Wakefield Trinity on Boxing Day as almost 10,000 fans made their way to Headingley. Despite the defeat, there were some standout performers. Here
Tom Holroyd
It's been a pretty miserable 2022 for the young prop, who didn't play a single game for the club due to injury and suspension. All that frustration was unleashed in his first carry of the game as he rampaged forward with an explosive drive. That was the first carry of the game and set the tone for his opening stint, as he reassured everyone that he would be able to return to action and make the desired impact in 2023. He will feel like a new signing for the Rhinos this year and on this evidence, a good one at that.
Kruise Leeming
Captain on the day though his long-term future in the role remains unclear, Leeming provided a great display, particularly in the second half. He kicked a delightful 40-20 and seconds later put Morgan Gannon through a gaping hole to score from it. Then he turned scorer, demonstrating great support play to back up Leon Ruan. His kicking game remained inventive and he was always on the shoulder. A good first outing of the season for a man determined to prove his England credentials. He was withdrawn late on and Leeds will be hoping it's not too serious.
Read more: Highlights as Leeds Rhinos fall to Boxing Day defeat against Wakefield Trinity
Derrell Olpherts
Leeds fans were quick to see what Olpherts will bring to the Rhinos in this display. Playing at both centre and wing, his carries were effective throughout and caused Wakefield problems. No player made more tackle busts than Olpherts in 2022 and that was demonstrated in one particular moment where he swatted off two men, went through a gap and offloaded to Richie Myler, who would have probably scored had he kept hold of the ball. He isn't the flashiest player but he gets through work appreciated by his teammates.
Leon Ruan
Not a lot is known about the teenager who has arrived from Doncaster, but he didn't do himself any harm here. Ruan provided some great running lines, one of which saw him break the line and send Leeming to the line for a score. He also showed some other exciting touches, with quick hands putting Levi Edwards away. The teenager has time on his side but also looks like he has all the key qualities to be a real asset moving forward. We may not see much of him in 2023, but his progress will be interesting to watch.
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