Leeds’ best win of the season came two weeks ago as they defeated Hull FC 62-16 as they ran in 11 tries.
However, in the fortnight since that season kickstarting triumph, Leeds have lost six of the players who started that fixture many of whom play key positions in attack.
So it came as no surprise yesterday to see the Rhinos struggling to score against Toulouse.
The final absentee was Liam Sutcliffe who was named in the original team at stand-off but due to illness was pulled out and replaced by Jack Sinfield.
After the game, coach Rohan Smith revealed that Leeds had tried to give Sutcliffe as much time as possible to get over his illness but as they submitted the team it became clear he wouldn’t be able to play.
When asked when Sutcliffe pulled out, Smith said: “Right about when we put the team sheets in. He’s been battling but in that heat he wasn’t going to get better.”
In terms of injuries and absences things only got worse for Leeds with the loss of Max Simpson to an ankle injury.
Smith explained the extent of the injury but also praised the young centre as well as the other youngsters who featured: “He’s got some kind of lateral ankle injury which can be nasty or they can be not as bad as first thought. What a tough brave performance from that kid he hasn’t played much recently, he’s a Leeds fan and the way he played an incredible effort.
“Gannon another 18-year-old, Jack I think he’s still 17 and veterans like Corey Johnson at 21, Jarrod O’Connor and Sam Walters. For those kids to step up on short prep, Tindall hasn’t played in 10 weeks, is credit to them.”
You can watch the full press conference here:
