Castleford’s Magic victory adds to Wakefield’s woes with relegation looming

Castleford are now six points clear of Super League strugglers Wakefield following their 26-24 victory over Leeds at Newcastle’s Magic Weekend.

It’s Andy Last’s third victory as head coach of the Tigers, marking a double over the Rhinos – and their first since Rivals Round against Wakefield in April.

Back from his loan spell and making only his fourth Super League appearance of the season, Jason Qareqare scored the vital try to level the scores at 24-24 in the latter stages, before Gareth Widdop nailed a sideline conversion to give his side the victory.

It’s a worrying result for Mark Applegarth’s Wakefield, who take on Leigh on Sunday at St James’ Park.

Wakefield remain winless so far in 2023, and have already lost twice to Adrian Lam’s Leopards in league and cup this year. 

David Fifita could feature after answering the club’s SOS calls in the hope of reviving their season and securing their Super League status.

Fifita, 33, was one of five new signings announced by the club during the week alongside the return of academy product Isaac Shaw from France.

The pair have been named in Applegarth’s 21-man squad for Sunday’s clash, which kicks-off the second day of action from 12pm in the north east.

Luke Gale has suffered a fresh injury setback and will have to wait even longer to make his debut following his move from Keighley earlier in May.

Returning on loan from Huddersfield during the week, Sam Hewitt has been named. Former Catalans pair Romain Franco and Hugo Salabio also joined the club on initial 28-day loans, but have not been named. 

Castleford Tigers claim Magic Weekend victory

Named in the centres, Alex Mellor crossed twice in the victory for Last’s Castleford, before leaving the field for a head injury assessment in the act of scoring his second.

Jacob Miller scored the side’s first on 12 minutes, while winger Elliot Wallis shortly followed.

Fiji international Qarqare scored the all-important try, with ex-England Widdop converting three from five.

Rohan Smith’s Leeds were heading for their seventh win of the season and had led by 10 with 15 minutes remaining, but the Tigers remained resilient to overturn the scoreline.

Mellor and Qareqare exploiting space on the right edge, with the latter scoring on the 74th minute. 

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