Brodie Croft’s emotional tribute to Rob Burrow after Leeds Rhinos win

A visibly emotional Brodie Croft insisted he will remember Leeds Rhinos’ victory over Leigh Leopards and the occasion surrounding it for the rest of his life, before breaking down in an emotional post-match press conference.

Croft was man of the match in the Rhinos’ 18-10 win over Leigh, an evening which was rightly dominated by extensive tributes to the life and career of Rob Burrow.

Croft flashed the number seven in a tribute to Burrow after scoring the first of his two tries and when interviewed by Sky Sports after the game he almost immediately broke down saying: “I can’t, to be honest, I was trying to hold it all day. I’m so pleased we were able to get the result for Rob, his family and this crowd.”

The Australian reflected on meeting Burrow’s parents in recent days and revealed how he did his best to try and keep his emotions under control until after the contest.

He said: “It’s hard to put into words. It’s been such an emotional two weeks. When I met Rob’s parents and then to see them in the stands during the day… I can’t.

“I tried to keep it in and not think about it too much. I’m thinking about it after the game now. I will remember this day for the rest of my life, I am so pleased that I was able to achieve this result.”

Croft also admitted he was overwhelmed by the enormity of the occasion, with an amazing crowd and a string of former great Rhinos in attendance to pay tribute to Burrow.

He said: “It’s special to see the seniors, just this whole occasion, you knew it was going to be a big one. For all these guys to come back, for Danny to fly in from Australia, it just shows the impact that Rob has had and for the MND community as well. I’m speechless to be honest.”

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