Goal-kicking Proves Pivotal in Super League’s Tight Encounters
As the 2024 Super League season reaches the midway point, we’ve already seen how crucial goal-kicking can be in close-fought encounters. Several nip-and-tuck games this year have been decided by the boot, with the ability to convert tries and slot penalties proving the difference between victory and defeat.
In the season’s opening round, last year’s Grand Finalists Catalans Dragons edged out Warrington Wolves 16-10, with all of the home side’s points coming via the reliable boot of Arthur Mourgue. The Wolves missed their first conversion, a margin that ultimately cost them the game.
Salford Red Devils have been a prime example of the importance of goal-kicking, with experienced playmaker Marc Sneyd‘s pinpoint accuracy proving pivotal in their early-season victories over Castleford Tigers and Hull KR. Sneyd’s 100% conversion rate and timely penalties made all the difference in those tight affairs.
“The trend continued in Round 4, as Hull KR’s inability to convert their chances ultimately cost them in a 22-20 defeat to Warrington, while Salford’s victory over reigning champions St Helens was built on Sneyd’s goal-kicking excellence.”
Elsewhere, newly-promoted London Broncos will be left wondering what could have been after their narrow 28-24 loss to Hull FC. Had the Broncos been more successful with the boot, converting the three chances they missed, they may well have claimed their first Super League win of the campaign.
As the race for the playoffs heats up, the ability to consistently convert opportunities from the kicking tee could prove the difference between success and failure for many Super League clubs. The first half of the 2024 season has shown just how valuable those extra points can be.
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