Leeds Rhinos have suffered their second defeat in consecutive weeks as they suffered a 22-6 loss at the hands of Wigan Warriors
Chris Hankinson’s first try in Rhinos colours was mere consolation, with the Rhinos scoring their first points after 70 minutes on the clock. Bevan French scored twice as he put on a spectacular performance to defeat Brad Arthur’s men.
The Rhinos were without Lachie Miller, Jake Connor and Ryan Hall this week, adding to their current injury list that includes the likes of Ash Handley, Cameron Smith and Andy Ackers. A makeshift left edge consisted of Kallum Watkins and Max Simpson, in what was the first game of the season in those positions for the pair.
Speaking on his side’s defeat, the former Parramatta Eels boss was proud of his makeshift side’s effort, despite not getting the result they wanted.
He said: “We weren’t fantastic tonight at all, but I thought we tried hard, we scrambled well, they were just a very, very good team. Our left edge probably didn’t have one guy that would resemble that position moving forward. But, we’re stoked. We’ve earned the right to get a home final and now we need to go and make the most of it.”
Commenting on Wigan, and whether they targeted the inexperienced flank, he said: “They’re a good side. They’re well coached. Coming into the game they knew that and everything was focused on our left edge, but we got better as it went on. Max Simpson was a last minute change, had to play on the wing and we haven’t done one session with him on the wing this year. So, for the majority of it, I was pretty happy.”
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Rhinos fans will be thrilled to hear that they will get some bodies back in their back line next week, with Arthur confirming that Miller, Hall, Connor and Handley will all be available next week.
He admitted: “We’ve got to get through the week, but yes all four of those guys will be back so that will be a whole new left edge, getting our left edge back which will be great. I’ve been told we’re pretty good out of tonight as well, no injuries, that will be great.”
The result confirmed that Leeds will take on St Helens at AMT Headingley next week, and the 50-year-old has issued a strong 15-word statement to the Saints, in what should be a thrilling knockout contest.
He said: ” [It will be a] Tough game, bring it on. We can’t wait. We’re so excited to get a home final.”
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