Rob Burrow: Leeds Rhinos star breaks down in tears during emotional TV interview

“To be honest, I tried to hold it all day,” Croft said. “I’m so pleased we could get the result for Rob and his family and this crowd. It’s been such an emotional fortnight. Meeting Rob’s parents and seeing them in the stands today,” he continued , holding back tears. .

“I tried to keep it and not think about it too much and think about it right after the game now… I’ll remember this day for the rest of my life. I’m so pleased that I could get the result.”

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“It’s special to see the seniors,” added Croft, reflecting on past tributes. Danny Buderus was among those in attendance, returning to the UK from Australia to speak to the current squad on the eve of the match.

“This whole occasion, we knew it was going to be a big one, and then for all those guys to come back, for Danny to fly in from Australia, it just shows the impact that Rob has had,” Croft continued. “And for the MND community, I’m a little speechless to be honest.”

Burrow’s interim manager and former team-mate Chev Walker described the performance as “in Rob’s spirit” in his post-match comments. Croft, meanwhile, suggested Burrow could have provided help from above when he crossed the try line.

“The long-range try I scored, I’ve never even scored a try from that far and it honestly felt like an out-of-body experience, as weird as that sounds,” he said. “I felt like someone else was with me

“This was a big one not just for the club but for Rob and his family and the MND community, and I think the guys showed that tonight, especially some of our younger guys…” he continued. “Just to get back out there, tackle guys over the touchline, pop up for the try savers, it was unbelievable, the effort that was put in.”