Leeds Rhinos Netball struck by key injuries in defeat to Saracens Mavericks

WITHDRAWN: Fi Toner was one of several Leeds Rhinos players who sustained an injury against Saracens Mavericks. Picture: Ben Lumley/Netball Super League

The Rhinos made it one win and one loss from two to begin their Superleague journey, after coming off second-best at Studio 001 in Wakefield.

Despite opening with the same starting seven as they did on Friday, the Rhinos did not have the same flying start, after being forced into several substitutions due to suffering three injuries within the first half.

Donnell Wallam had an astonishing start for the Rhinos, dominating the circle and scoring 9 of the 10 goals to maintain the game goal for goal before coming off injured.

INJURY BLOW: Donnell Wallam of Leeds Rhinos was withdrawn by injury against Saracens Mavericks. Picture: Ben Lumley/Netball Super League

This allowed the Mavericks to take the upper hand and they led by two goals to make it 22-20 going into the third quarter.

The resilient Rhinos managed to keep their cool, until shortly after they had to make another change at the start of the second half, after Fi Toner came off with an ankle injury.

In the final quarter, the Mavericks put their foot down and pulled away from the Rhinos, winning by a four-goal difference.

Despite the fight and the determination of the Yorkshire team, the injuries disturbed the Rhinos’ flow and ultimately resulted in their defeat.