Quote: underthesticks "Had this match been a must win game, Leigh's approach would have been different. Smith would not have been selected for starters. Paterson would have played. Hood would have retained his place. It was a nice touch from the coaching staff, to let Tonga play alongside Reni for his final match. Similarly, Burns and Smith were given a game. Unfortunately, on top of this, Worthington went down early and Higson had to pull out before KO. Leeds also had changes, but more will always be made of these.
The main reason for the performance, IMO, is that it was a nothing match. Leigh were still on cloud nine after their magnificent achievements thus far. Leeds expected to stay up all along. They would not have felt the same sense of elation. Look at Hull. They have been one of the top sides in SL all season. They've still not come down from their achievements at Wembley. It is normal.'"
Agree with everything you say there.