RHINOS CLOSE TO SANCTUARY

LEEDS are on the brink of survival after overcoming a scare to see off Halifax.

After London, Toulouse and Toronto claimed a hat-trick of wins for Championship clubs over Super League opposition on Saturday, part-timers Halifax were aiming to cause the biggest upset of the lot.

But a professional performance from the fallen champions virtually assured their safety, although the scoreline flattered them.

Halifax were level at the break after Steve Tyrer cancelled out Richie Myler’s opener but were unable to maintain their intensity.

The Rhinos needed a quickfire double from Brad Dwyer to end the home side’s resistance.

Liam Sutcliffe put the result beyond doubt and finished with five goals after late efforts from Cameron Smith (above) and Luke Briscoe.