Watched by a crowd of 9,026, Tigers started well in the opening game of Betfred Super League’s Easter weekend and put Rhinos under huge pressure in the first half, forcing five goalline drop-outs. But, after Danny Richardson hit a post with an early penalty, the home side couldn’t find a way through the opposition’s defence and were made to pay when Leeds broke the deadlock a couple of minutes into the second period. That took the wind out of Castleford’s sails and they never looked like getting back into the contest, despite Josh Simm’s late try which Richardson converted. Here’s how the Tigers players rated.
7. Stand-off: Danny Richardson (no 6)
One major error, with a drop out into touch on the full, but his kick created Tigers' try 6 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
8. Scrum-half: Jacob Miller (no 7)
Lively in the first half, but should probably have done more with all the pressure Tigers applied 6 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Prop: Liam Watts (no 8)
Official Tigers man of the match, disciplined, nothing silly and had a good battle with Leeds' middles 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
10. Hooker: Paul McShane (no 9)
Still regaining his match fitness after a long layoff, but Tigers' best play revolved around him 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
11. Prop: George Lawler (no 10)
Had a good start, but less effective later on 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
12. Eli El-Zakhem (no 11)
Heavily involved early on, but never quite managed to open up Rhinos' defence 6 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com