King inspires Wolves rout

Matt King
12 April 2012

Matt King claimed a clinical hat-trick as leaders Warrington underlined their Engage Super League title credentials with another thumping win - a 48-18 victory over Castleford.

The Wolves destroyed Terry Matterson's side 62-0 on home soil two months ago and again had far too much quality, despite missing skipper Adrian Morley and playmaker Lee Briers. Tony Smith's men led 24-0 at the break after tries from Brett Hodgson, Richie Myler, Matty Blythe and King.

King added two more scores to complete his treble and with Joel Monaghan, Hodgson and Ryan Atkins adding further scores, Castleford's spirited second-half rally ultimately meant little. The Tigers crossed through Ryan Hudson, Brett Ferres, Rangi Chase and Greg Eden but the damage had long since been done.

Wigan remain on the heels of Warrington thanks to a third successive win but they were pushed all the way by a Leeds side that defied their recent poor form with a battling display in the 26-24 result.

The Rhinos led 18-12 at half-time and thought they had snatched a famous victory four minutes from the end when Danny McGuire touched down only for video referee Steve Ganson to disallow the try for a knock-on.

The champions fell below the high standards they set in their big wins over St Helens and Huddersfield but credit must go to Leeds, who inspired by skipper Kevin Sinfield and veteran full-back Brent Webb, were the best team for long periods of the match.

Francis Meli grabbed a brace of tries as St Helens claimed their first win in four matches to consolidate their top-four spot as they recorded a 28-14 victory over Hull.

Chris Flannery weaved over from close range after 14 minutes for Saints and Meli added both his efforts before the break, with a reply from Tom Briscoe for the away side.

Jordan Turner was first to cross in the second half as Hull reduced the deficit, but further tries from Thomas Makinson and Jonny Lomax - with Jamie Foster taking his conversion count to four - meant Briscoe's second try on the hooter, which was goaled by Joe Westerman, was a mere consolation.

Ashley Gibson's double saw Salford come from behind to claim a hard-fought 26-18 victory over Harlequins.

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