Headingley Insight: Leeds v Hull FC

by NRL

In this weeks edition of Headingley Carnegie Insight, Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brian McDermott looks ahead to Saturday's game at Hull FC on Saturday night.

HOW IS YOUR SQUAD SHAPING UP?

We are in good shape with everyone coming through last week's tough game at Salford well. We are pleased to have Jamie Jones-Buchanan back available this week and we have certainly missed him whilst he has been out. He has been itching to get back out there but we have made sure that he has passed the necessary tests and he is ready to go now. Rob Burrow and Kallum Watkins are not far away, both could be in contention next week, and Weller Hauraki will make his come back in the Under 20s against Hull FC this weekend.

HAVE YOU BEEN IMPRESSED BY HULL FC THIS SEASON?

Hull are always a tough side and I am expecting nothing less on Saturday night, especially at the KC Stadium. They have had a fortnight to prepare for this game having been knocked out of the Cup in the Fourth Round of the Cup. It is a fantastic place to go and play with a great atmosphere and we are looking forward to going over there. Jamie Ellis is impressing in their side and I am sure they will want to end a run of three consecutive defeats.

IS IT TOUGH HAVING TO SWAP BETWEEN THE CUP AND THE LEAGUE AT THIS STAGE OF THE SEASON?

Not particularly because we have been playing against Super League opposition and I would certainly rather we had that issue than not. Our focus is on continually looking to improve our performance. Last week we had to dig out the win against Salford in a do or die game in horrendous conditions, this week we want to build on that spirit, continue our good work on defence and make sure that we give a good account of ourselves on attack.

Your thoughts?