Rohan Smith’s honest take on Castleford Tigers

Leeds Rhinos make the short trip over to the Jungle this weekend.

The Rhinos take on West Yorkshire rivals Castleford Tigers who are in a similar situation as the Rhinos were when the two sides last met at the Jungle.

Last Easter Leeds were struggling at the bottom and looking for a new coach and after four games a low on confidence Cas side host the Rhinos this weekend.

However, Rohan Smith doesn’t believe that will make their challenge at the Jungle any easier.

He said today:

“They are a experienced team and have a lot of good players so I am only interested in preparing my team to take on these good players at their best.

“Confidence is what you tell yourself, I don’t buy into it and they have players who have been there and done it all before. So I am expecting a challenge.”

He also spoke about the hostile welcome he expects his side to be greeted with:

“Yeah from what I’ve heard it is in line with many other derbies across the comp, it is hard fought and there is plenty of links but when it kicks off we have to focus on ourselves.”

Leeds have a former Tiger in the shape of Derrell Olpherts set to feature in the game.

Smith said of him: “I’m sure he will be telling all the boys about players’ tendencies. He will lead in that way.”