‘What they’ve produced today has been nothing short of outstanding’ – Jamie Jones-Buchanan hails his Leeds Rhinos side following defeat to Castleford Tigers

Leeds Rhinos have been close to their second win of the season in recent weeks.

Jamie Jones-Buchanan’s side drew 20-20 to Huddersfield Giants last week and were narrowly beaten by Castleford Tigers today, 16-14.

For Jones-Buchanan, he was incredibly proud of the performance if not the result and hailed the young players who were on show.

Jack Sinfield and Max Simpson made their first-team debuts at the tender age of 17 and the interim boss believes they are the future Golden Generation.

“There is a lot to be delighted about for that performance,” Jones-Buchanan said.

“Max Simpson, Jack Sinfield, Jarrod O’Connor and Morgan Gannon, they are the root foundation of the next generation.

“It galvanises your character and they are the foundation on which they should build the club on.”

Jones-Buchanan was keen to emphasise how much responsibility senior players have to guide them.

“We are a million miles away from where we were a month ago, but some of the senior players, Kruise Leeming he is in pain he hurts.

“I understand how he feels but I said ‘you’ve got to be a leader and direct these young people to show them where to go’.

“What they’ve produced today has been nothing short of outstanding.”