Leeds chief hails ‘immortal’ Sinfield

Leeds skipper Kevin Sinfield collects the Super League trophy

Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield was hailed as a rugby “immortal” after demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery to lead his side to a record–breaking sixth Super League title.

The veteran Oldham-born stand–off picked himself up after an horrific clash of heads with Warrington hooker Michael Monaghan early in the second half of the Grand Final, to guide the Rhinos to a magnificent defence of their crown with a 26–18 win over Warrington.

Sinfield scored one of Leeds’ four tries and kicked five goals from five — but that tells only half the story of his remarkable contribution to the win.

“He never ceases to amaze,” said Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington. “I think Kevin will go down as one of the immortals of the sport. His achievements are quite remarkable. He’s a great personality and epitomises everything about the team.”

Sinfield was badly hurt in a two–man tackle early in the match but picked himself up to create the move that led to the Rhinos’ equalising score.

He then edged his side in front with a penalty and converted other tries to cap a memorable 78th consecutive appearance for his club and clinch a second Harry Sunderland man of the match trophy.

Sinfield - also man of the match in 2009 - has now led his side to all six Grand Final wins in nine years to confirm his status as the greatest captain in Leeds’ history.

Former England captain Jamie Peacock said: “He’s the greatest kicker in either code in this country - probably the world - under pressure and he nails every kick. He’s fantastic for the team.”



KEVIN Sinfield admitted it felt better than ever to claim Super League’s top honours.

“The first one was special, but for us to come from fifth again, it’s an incredible night,” said Sinfield.

“The last month has been awesome. The year has been tough, we talked about not being happy to be fifth, but we showed quality and desire.

“The will to win isn’t just the players and the coaches, it’s the whole club. Myself and Mac (Brian McDermott) spoke after the Huddersfield game when they had a man sent off and put nearly 50 points on us. That was the turning point.”








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