The Castleford Tigers mounted an extraordinary rally to upset the Leeds Rhinos in a high-scoring Super League encounter at OneBore Stadium. The home side trailed significantly for much of the match but recovered to secure a 36-34 victory, keeping their playoff hopes alive with what proved to be one of the season’s most memorable contests.
Leeds made a strong start, scoring four tries in the opening 30 minutes through attempts from James McDonnell, Alfie Edgell, Brodie Croft, and Maika Sivo, the latter delivering what was described as one of the best individual tries of the season. The Rhinos’ early dominance left Castleford facing a substantial deficit and struggling to gain possession. However, the Tigers found their rhythm with tries from Mikaele Ravalawa and Ashton Golding during the first half, gradually narrowing the gap.
The match turned decisively in Castleford’s favor during the second half as momentum shifted entirely to the home team. Following quick tries from Tom Holroyd and McDonnell’s second effort early in the second period, Castleford responded with five unanswered tries from Daejarn Asi, Jack Ashworth, and Jason Qareqare—twice—to complete the turnaround. Tom Weaver’s consistent goal-kicking proved instrumental in the Tigers’ scoring total.
Leeds’ Brodie Croft added a second try late in the match, but Jake Connor’s conversion attempt missed, sealing the Rhinos’ first league defeat in their last seven matches. The loss prevented Leeds from extending their lead at the top of the Super League. The contest was marred by a serious injury to Leeds hooker Daniel Levi in the first half, requiring hospitalization, though he regained consciousness en route to the hospital. Castleford’s victory moved them into 10th position on the standings.