Sunday Social: Jake Connor’s masterclass, Quinlan makes Hull KR return, Watkins says goodbye

James Messenger

It is time for Love Rugby League’s Sunday Social, your alternative recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past seven days. 

Jake Connor proved to be the pick of the bunch for Hull FC on Thursday as they recovered from a 10-point deficit at half-time to claim victory over Castleford. The 24-year-old grabbed three assists from centre and showed some impressive sleight of hand, earning him serious praise from supporters and commentators on social media.

If Saturday’s victory over former club Warrington wasn’t pleasing enough for Tony Smith, he will have been delighted to see Adam Quinlan cross for the match-winning try. The Australian full-back made his return for the Robins after over nine months out with an ACL injury.

After picking up back-to-back wins in Super League for the first time since 2013, London opted to go with rather luxurious surroundings for their post-game recovery session today. Danny Ward’s side defeated Catalans 30-12 at the Stade Gilbert Brutus to join Hull KR and Leeds on 12 points in the fight for survival.

Lancashire claimed a 2-1 series win in this year’s Academy Origin after a 30-24 victory over Yorkshire at the Mobile Rocket Stadium. These players may only just be starting out in the sport, but there was certainly no love lost from the get-go!

It was announced following Friday’s loss to Wigan that Leeds Captain Kallum Watkins would exit the club earlier than expected to join NRL side Gold Coast Titans. Following the match, the 28-year-old spoke about his time at Headingley and the move Down Under.

It was a successful afternoon for another English side across the Channel as Swinton gave their hopes of Championship survival an almighty boost with a 20-18 victory over second-placed Toulouse. Their fans certainly seemed to enjoy their afternoon at the Stade Ernest-Argelès – and who could blame them!

Championship Adam Quinlan