Written by Callum Walker
Promoted in 2018 on the back of a gritty 4-2 victory over runaway leaders Toronto, London were given hardly a chance by pundits and fans alike as they went into their first Super League season since 2014.
But, over the course of the season, the Broncos have won the hearts and minds of an overwhelming majority of Super League fans and are now within a whisker of staying up with just three games remaining.
Though bottom of the table, London’s fate is in their own hands as their remaining three fixtures sees the capital side face Leeds, Hull KR and Wakefield – three sides that are still very much in the relegation mire.
The way the Broncos have gone about their business has impressed the Rugby League fraternity; whilst the likes of Hull KR, Huddersfield and Wakefield have been disappointing, playing a boring style of play, London have thrilled fans with expansive attack and ruthless defence.
Their current 18 points is their greatest haul since 2009, which could still be beaten if they win two out of their last three games.
As the season has gone on, the Broncos have continued to defy the odds with fantastic and memorable victories over St Helens, Wigan, Wakefield, Catalans, Leeds and Hull KR. To beat half of the top flight in their first year back in the big time is no mean feat and head coach Danny Ward has earned considerable plaudits for the way he has got his players firing.
The likes of Luke Yates, Rob Butler, James Cunningham and Alex Walker have all proved that they have what it takes to play in Super League whilst Kieran Dixon, Rhys Williams, Jordan Abdull and Olsi Krasniqi have rejuvenated their top flight careers after barren spells on the sideline or in the second tier.
The Broncos have shown just how essential camaraderie and togetherness are in building a Super League squad. Whilst those around them – Wakefield, Hull KR, Huddersfield and Leeds – boast a much more expensive roster, they have lacked the drive and determination that epitomizes this London side.
Some critics will argue that London bring little to the competition. Yes, their away crowd following hardly fills the coffers of home sides, but those such as Huddersfield and Salford bring an appalling amount of support across the Pennines or even in their own county.
The excitement that the Broncos have brought in 2019 justifies their inclusion in the top flight, and, long may they continue to fight for their Super League place. Even if the capital club gets demoted, it’s been a season to remember, and, no one can say that they have left the top tier without a bloody good fight.
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