‘There’s a fair more that want us to fail than win’ – Brian McDermott gives defiant interview after being quizzed about pressure on Featherstone Rovers

Brian McDermott has won everything possible in the top flight of rugby league, making him the most decorated coach ever in Super League.

From Super League Grand Finals to the Challenge Cup, McDermott has been there and done that.

He hasn’t, however, won the Championship title – something which he hopes will change in 2022.

And, when quizzed by Premier Sports pundit Ross Fiddes about pressure on his Featherstone Rovers side, McDermott was defiant.

“I’m not worried about the pressure, what are we here for? Expectancy is a good thing,” McDermott said.

“We are expected to go up and certainly be one of the frontrunners along with Leigh with all our resources.

“But, pressure is what you lot put on coaches and players, the expectancy is what we get excited about.”

The former Leeds Rhinos head coach was also eager to stress that his Featherstone team are wanting to thrive with their ‘favourites’ tag.

“It’s going to be a real competitive season with some really challenging teams in there.

“There’s a fair more that want us to fail than win.

“We like to not fly under the radar but play in those environments where we thrive.”