Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur has given his verdict after his side defeated St Helens to move back atop Super League and set up a potential League Leaders Shield decider versus Wigan Warriors.
The Rhinos travelled to St Helens, somewhere that hasn’t been a happy hunting ground in recent years, but they were comfortable 34-6 winners with Jake Connor once again running the show.
Connor picked up three try assists whilst Brodie Connor kept up his incredible scoring streak in what was a very strong performance all around for the Rhinos, who now march on to bigger things.
Speaking positively post-match on Sky Sports, Arthur highlighted the consistency across the performance, particularly in the early exchanges of each half: “I thought our start was really good and our start to the second half. Often we haven’t been matching that, so to have two good starts to both halves was pleasing.
“We finished as well, we had Cooper Jenkins in the back row, just moved a few blokes around and they kept a bit of pride in their defence, which made me very happy.”
He also hailed his side’s ‘urgent’ defence, stating: “The urgency was good. We sustained two or three sets in a row in the first half on the try line. That can be good for your confidence when you get the ball, but it can also be a bit demoralising for the opposition. That was a really important part of our game early.”
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Whilst Connor stole the show with his assists, Brodie Croft got himself his 28th try of the Super League season and when explaining how and why the half has taken such a step forward in his scoring, Arthur said: “Crofty’s support play is very, very good. I think just this year we simplified how we wanted to play with Crofty there.
“Less touches for him is better, just focus on his quality. Maybe last year we had him trying to touch the ball too much. He picks his moments really well now and lets Jake run the team.”
He was also able to provide a positive update on Danny Levi, who left the field after just 13 minutes in his first game back after a serious neck injury.
Arthur announced: “He’s okay. He just said he didn’t feel right. It wasn’t worth the risk. We’ll just have to go back and see where he’s at with it.”
Leeds now have a long week before Saturday’s home clash against Wigan, a tie that as Arthur stated will in all likelihood decide the League Leaders Shield.
Looking forward, he said: “We’ve worked really hard to give ourselves that chance next week. We’re playing against an extremely good team who are well-coached and have been for a long time.
“We’ve got the upmost respect for them. I think next week decides maybe the League Leaders [Shield]. What a great position to be in. We’re excited about that.
“It’s at home. We know we’re going to have to fight hard. This is what we’ve been working towards and we’re up for it.”
