Wasps 53 Leeds Rhinos 41 - Slow start leads to second-successive Vitality Superleague defeat

Dan Ryan made two changes to the Rhinos starting seven following their most recent loss to league leaders Loughborough Lightening, with Emily Hollingworth in at wing defence for Rosie Harris and Amelia Hall starting at wing attack. This pushed Rhea Dixon up to goal shooter, with Sienna Rushton being benched for the Rhinos.

Fresh from their victory against Manchester Thunder in yesterday’s game, Wasps started the game at a high tempo, isolating Rhea Dixon in the inner circle. The Wasps took an early advantage and led Rhinos 14-6 at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter commenced with a change for the Rhinos, with Sienna Rushton coming on and Amelia Hall being benched. Wasps intensified their defensive pressure, making it hard for the Rhinos to feed the ball into the shooting circle. But within the last few minutes of the quarter, a strong display for the Rhinos narrowed the margin, with the first half finishing 23-18 in favour of Wasps.

The Rhinos had their best passage of play at the start of the third quarter, putting pressure on Wasps, who responded positively. A competitive quarter ended 38-29 to Wasps.

Substitutes were made for both sides in the final quarter, as Wasps looked to see out the game. Another physical quarter ended 53-41 to Wasps.

The Rhinos are back in action again tomorrow and looking to improve on their performance against Strathclyde Sirens.

Leeds Rhinos: Paige Kindred, Vicki Oyesola, Emily Hollingworth, Jade Clarke, Amelia Hall, Brie Grierson, Rhea Dixon.

Wasps: Josie Huckle, Fran Williams, Amy Flanagan, Iona Christian, Sophia Candappa, Katie Harris, Rachel Dunn.

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