With the approaching milestone of the 5,000th game and the celebration of the 30th season of the Super League, rugby league insiders have reflected on their favorite moments from this illustrious history.
Brian Carney stated, "While recency bias may be questioned, the most significant Super League event I’ve witnessed in my 26 years in the sport has undoubtedly been the Las Vegas showcase. It eclipsed all my prior experiences, highlighting everything this competition strives for. Here’s to more moments like it."
Barrie McDermott recounted, "Having been involved in the Super League’s journey for all 30 years, it’s challenging to choose just one moment. ‘Wide to West’ represents rugby league’s equivalent of Shakespeare, mixed with northern grit. Eddie’s passionate commentary was poetry in motion, and that memorable night at Knowsley Road felt like a pressure cooker ready to explode."
He added, "Chris Joynt may not have realized that his try would enter Super League folklore, setting the stage for countless replays in the future. Those iconic words are now immortalized, ensuring generations will debate the moment."
Jenna Brooks shared her own standout memories, including intense Magic Weekends and unforgettable moments like Jack Welsby’s last-minute try in the 2020 Grand Final. "Witnessing Welsby’s try in person was surreal,” she recalled. “The 2020 Grand Final, played under heavy Covid restrictions, was unforgettable. With time running out and the score at a standstill, Makinson’s attempt hit the post, setting the stage for Welsby’s dramatic winning try."
Jamie Jones-Buchanan emphasized the importance of the June 21 broadcast honoring Rob Burrow. "This event showcased the collective spirit of rugby league. It not only celebrated Burrow, a courageous and iconic player but also demonstrated the game’s potential when stakeholders unite."
Jones-Buchanan continued, "The Las Vegas project represents what the sport can achieve with vision. It revived interest in the game, echoing moments from Super League’s inception in the 1990s."
Jon Wells chimed in with fond memories of Henry Paul’s remarkable Grand Final try in 1999 that continues to inspire players. "The sheer athleticism of the Paul brothers captured my admiration, and I was fortunate to train alongside Henry later in my career."
As Super League gears up for its 30th anniversary, fans can look forward to the upcoming fixtures:
Super League Round Six Fixtures
Thursday, March 27
- 8 PM: Castleford Tigers vs. Catalans Dragons
Friday, March 28
- 8 PM: Leigh Leopards vs. Wakefield Trinity
- 8 PM: Warrington Wolves vs. Leeds Rhinos (5,000th game)
Saturday, March 29
- 5:30 PM: Catalans Dragons vs. St Helens
Sunday, March 30
- 3 PM: Huddersfield Giants vs. Hull Kingston Rovers
- 3 PM: Wigan Warriors vs. Salford Red Devils
Stay tuned for all the action as the Super League continues to deliver thrilling moments and stories for its dedicated fans.
