Super League: Lessons to be learned from the opening round

AFTER an action-packed opening weekend of Super League action here's a number of observations ...

1: When it comes to the real business, Hull KR aren’t easy-beats. They had a disastrous per-season campaign, but the Robins dug deep to salvage an encouraging point against Castleford Tigers thanks to Josh Mantellato’s conversion after the hooter had sounded.

2: Hull have one of the most under-rated players in Super League in hooker Danny Houghton. He played the full game against Salford Red Devils and added some big moments in attack to his usual huge defensive effort.

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3: Wakefield Trinity Wildcats will be more competitive this year, if they cut down the errors. They had a good go against Widnes, but basic mistakes at crucial times were costly.

4: Denny Solomona is becoming one of Super League’s most lethal weapons. His try at Hull KR took his Castleford Tigers tally to 19 in just 16 games.

5: Huddersfield Giants can not afford any more injuries. They lost Danny Brough (dead leg) and Scott Grix (shoulder) in their defeat at St Helens, which Joe Wardle missed due to a quad tear.

6: Lack of a kicker could be costly for the champions. Leeds and Warrington Wolves shared four tries, but Zak Hardaker was off target twice in Rhinos’ 12-10 defeat.