It was a season to remember for Leeds and for Castleford’s Luke Gale, while Wakefield bucked the big-spending trend and Toronto Wolfpack showed a glimpse of the futureHad these awards been published a fortnight ago, it could have been so easy to go for Zak Hardaker. The 25-year-old had looked throughout 2017 like a player – and, more important, a person – who had finally rid himself of the off-field indiscretions that plagued the early years of his career. We may now not see him on a rugby field again for some time. That, however, should not overshadow the outstanding form of our first winner: Hardaker’s Castleford team-mate Luke Gale. Related: Stevie Ward plays full part as Leeds equal record...
Half-back has been part of Wolves’ three-game unbeaten run and says recent upturn in form must continue against HuddersfieldIt has been quite the few months for Declan Patton. At the age of 21, the Warrington half-back has already fulfilled a number of childhood dreams, helping his hometown club win the League Leader’s Shield as well as appearing – and scoring – in a Super League Grand Final last October.Yet, and perhaps in line with Warrington’s season itself, Patton’s 2017 has been something of a reality check. The mysterious departure of Chris Sandow at the end of last season looked to be Patton’s golden opportunity to earn a regular spot in the team but the signing of Kevin Brown as the...
How will new boys Leigh fare? Can Warrington shake off the double disappointment of last year? Are Wigan contenders once more?Last year produced arguably the most unpredictable Super League season in history as Leeds went straight from winning the treble to a relegation scrap before Wigan defeated Warrington to lift the Grand Final trophy at Old Trafford. But how will all 12 teams - including newly promoted Leigh - fare in 2017? Related: From rock bottom to back in the big time: how Leigh came back from the dead Related: Danny McGuire and Leeds Rhinos ready to right last season’s wrongs Related: Sylvain Houles interview: on coaching Toulouse Olympique and farming sheep Continue reading...