Leeds Rhinos transfer off the table

Leeds Rhinos gave debuts to four new signings on Boxing Day as they defeated Wakefield Trinity.

Lachie Miller started at fullback, Matt Frawley was the scrumhalf, Andy Ackers started at nine and Mickael Goudemand started at prop for Rohan Smith’s side.

Frawley had an superb game whilst Ackers and Miller ended the game with two assists each with Goudemand getting a try but that doesn’t tell the whole story with a difficult first half for the side as a whole resulting in some difficult moments for these new fellas especially Miller who overtried according to Rohan Smith who explained:

“Mixed bag, mixed bag. Lachie [Miller] over tried and he was that desperate to show what he’s got and impress and show everyone what he’s about. He tried a bit too hard but I liked how he went out after half time and played that little patch he did well to get back on the tracks and do well. Mickael Goudemand was excellent, I thought.

“He played nearly the whole game. We lost a few with injuries, so he had to play more than expected, but he showed his traits. Frawley played well, good solid game, controlled the game. When we took care of possession, he was in good control. And I thought Ackers was a constant threat from dummyhalf and showed some of what he can do. He’s just getting started, but I think he’s a great addition to our group and a very underrated player in the country. I think he’s an excellent player.”

There has been speculation that Leeds could add a further new recruit to their ranks in the shape of Lee Kershaw who has been training with the club.

Smith was asked about this and he said: “Lee Kershaw has not signed, no.”

Asked if Kershaw will continue to train with the Rhinos, Smith added:

“I haven’t had that conversation with Lee. He’s trained with us up until Christmas and if it’s in his best interest and we’ve got a spot there for him to jump in on our reserves team at times it’s helpful for us and as I said before I think what goes around comes around sometimes. People need a bit of help in there and he’s a good kid, he’s not too far away from here and I think he’s a good enough player to be contributing in a Super League squad somewhere, we just don’t have the spot for him.”