Currently, Rotherham Titans are enjoying a strong position in National One, having spent a significant portion of the previous season monitoring Leeds for any errors, which they seized upon to ultimately win the National Two North title and gain promotion.
Leeds is now determined to apply the insights gained from their narrow defeat in a two-team contest to the latter half of a season that has evolved into a three-way struggle for the championship and the coveted promotion place.
At present, Leeds ranks second, trailing Sheffield RUFC while maintaining a lead over Lymm. The trio finds themselves tied on 60 points at the midpoint of the season, each team boasting 12 victories, one loss, and 12 bonus points acquired from their 13 matches thus far.
Brady, who also competes for the Tykes, stated: “We understand what is necessary following last year. Simply reflecting on Rotherham’s actions reveals their commendable efforts.”
“We triumphed over them early in the season, but they merely stayed within close range, never surrendering hope despite it appearing unlikely we would falter. They continued to press on, securing victories and accruing bonus points until they capitalized on our misstep.”
“When we stumbled, they took advantage. Therefore, we must replicate that approach this year, ensuring we concentrate on our performance, without being preoccupied by Sheffield’s actions. We must aim to win all our matches, collect all bonus points, and when we face Sheffield and Lymm again, that will be our opportunity to reclaim the lead.”
Considering the fierce title competition of last season, it would have been understandable for Leeds to wish for a more straightforward campaign this time, but Brady insists that no one at the club is seeking an easier path.
In fact, the competition within the fourth tier seems to be intensifying, as demonstrated by their recent encounters with Harrogate and Sheffield Tigers, both of whom are fighting against relegation.
“This year’s league appears to be more competitive. Sheffield Tigers challenged us significantly, and Harrogate did the same last Saturday. Every team is fiercely competitive, putting forth their best efforts,” stated Brady.
“No one wants us to dominate the league because you won’t achieve your best performance that way. We desire a league that’s thrilling, where every match is a contest that supporters wish to attend. It appears to be a three-horse race now.”
“How will Sheffield perform come the new year? How will we shape up?”
“This is the midpoint, and it feels almost as though the season is restarting since we are all tied on 60 points—effectively like starting from scratch.”
Leeds suffered a loss to Lymm but secured a victory over Sheffield earlier this season. Both of these teams will visit the Sycamores in February and March.
“Sheffield and Lymm find themselves in a similar predicament, facing challenging matches without any easy victories in sight. All these games will be taxing encounters, and if they do not remain sharp, they could easily drop points or lose,” Brady remarked. “It’s demanding, but that’s precisely how we prefer it.”
