Broncos’ Oli pitch perfect in win
Rugby League
Maidstone’s Oli Leyland played a starring role in London Broncos’ thrilling win over Sheffield Eagles last Sunday.
The Broncos were playing the first of back-to-back games at Ebbsfleet United’s Stonebridge Road stadium and Leyland had a key role in an historic fightback.
Broncos reversed a 28-point half-time deficit to beat the Eagles 36-28 in the Betfred Championship. The win, believed to be rugby league’s biggest deficit reversal this millennium, was inspired by six tries within 33 minutes and as many successful conversions by Leyland.
Sunday’s result was made that extra bit special for Leyland, who was representing his boyhood club in his home county for the first time since turning professional in 2020.
The Academy graduate openly admitted he and his team-mates embarrassed themselves during a challenging opening half that saw the Broncos concede six unanswered tries.
But, inspired by interim head coach Mike Eccles’ half-time discussion, Leyland and his team-mates flipped the game on its head.
“It was made clear to everyone that we could not afford to give up on the game,” said the former Invicta Panthers player.
“We didn’t discuss winning as such, but we left the changing room seriously motivated to give a good account of ourselves, and that’s what we did.
“We were playing at a new
stadium in front of new supporters and we’re happy to admit we all let ourselves down in the first half.
“I don’t think anyone expected what happened in the second half, but we never stopped believing and battled right to the final hooter.
“Personally, it was pleasing to convert all six tries. The boys really helped me out by touching down as close to the posts as possible, which obviously helps.
“I’ve enjoyed the pressure of kicking this year. It can be tough at times but it’s an environment I thrive in and want to develop more.”
The Broncos return to Ebbsfleet this Sunday to take on Betfred Championship promotion hopefuls Featherstone Rovers (3pm).
Leyland hopes to see another positive turnout for the club’s second fixture in Kent, which has been moved while routine
pitch maintenance is carried out at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
“The supporters generated an electric atmosphere,” said Leyland. “It was great to meet everyone after the game, too, and have our photos taken with some of the club’s younger supporters.
“Every single one of us in the dressing room has time for those responsibilities, giving back is something we love to do.
“Hopefully those who attended for the first time are inspired to return this weekend when we host Featherstone, which will be a tough game.
“They’re a very good team, and we’ll need to deliver an 80-minute performance.
“We all believe in each other, and we gave a decent account of ourselves when we last met Featherstone - albeit conditions were in our favour that day.”