Leeds Rhinos 42 Severn Stars 38 - Vicki Oyesola shines as Rhinos fend off Stars

Standing firm: Leeds Rhinos' goal defence Vicki Oyesola, right (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images for Vitality Netball Superleague)

Leeds Rhinos pulled off their fourth Vitality Superleague win of the season, beating Severn Stars 42-38 in a gruelling battle at the Studio 001 Arena in Wakefield last night.

Rhinos coach Dan Ryan left his team unchanged, keeping the same starting seven that brought Leeds success last week against the Sirens.

However, this week saw the welcome return of Tuaine Keenan after suffering an injury earlier in the season.

In a lively start to the game, Rhinos’ Sienna Rushton once again worked her magic in the circle alongside Rhea Dixon, keeping the game level in the opening quarter.

Strong effort: Paige Kindred of Leeds Rhinos.

The superior height advantage enjoyed by Georgia Row, the goal shoot for the Stars, which she used to capitalise the circle didn’t seem to intimidate Paige Kindred, pictured above, with the keeper partnering Vicki Oyesola to form a gritty defensive unit for Leeds.

The Rhinos led by four goals at half-time and Oyesola continued to put on a class display in second half, dominating Leeds’ defensive end, despite struggling last week with some respiratory issues. She continued to make a massive impact on court for the Rhinos with her strong marking.

Dixon, used her work rate and impeccable timing to help guide the Rhinos in the right direction, working hand in hand with England’s most capped player, Jade Clarke, around the circle edge.

Due to a few cautions, the Stars began to catch up in a thrilling final few minutes, but they could not close the gap fully, as Rhinos held on to win.

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