Coach Brad Arthur blamed poor skill for Leeds Rhinos’ shock 18-12 defeat by Hull FC in Friday’s final game of the regular season.

It was Leeds’ third loss in five matches - all of them at home - and they finished second in the Betfred Super League table, four points behind Wigan Warriors and ahead of Warrington Wolves on points difference. Leeds get next weekend off before a semi-final at AMT Headingley on Friday, September 25, against the highest-ranked elimination play-off winners.

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Reflecting on Friday’s game, Arthur said: “I’m disappointed with the result. I thought we were better physically tonight, the forwards were good, dominated field position and possession, especially in the first half. I just thought we were poor on our edges with our execution - some of our skill was poor. We created more than enough chances and opportunities and we didn’t ice them. It’s as simple as that.”

Maika Sivo finished the regular season as leading Super League try scorer, but his return from injury ended in defeat by Hull FC. Picture by Steve Riding.

placeholder image — Maika Sivo finished the regular season as leading Super League try scorer, but his return from injury ended in defeat by Hull FC. Picture by Steve Riding.

Arthur stressed: “Some individuals have got to be more focused around owning their job. The forwards couldn’t have done any more, they put us in really good field position for the majority of the game. We passed and should’ve kicked or kicked and should’ve passed or poor selection with the pass or poor passes, poor catch - just our skill wasn’t good enough.

“We had enough chances - they scored from a drop out, that’s not good enough.”