Headingley Insight: Leeds v Wigan

by NRL

In this weeks edition of Headingley Carnegie Insight Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brian McDermott looks ahead to this Friday's clash with Wigan Warriors at Headingley Carnegie, kick off 8pm.

HOW IS YOUR SIDE LOOKING FOR FRIDAY'S GAME?

We are in good shape after last week's win against Bradford. Unfortunately we have lost Kallum Watkins after he picked up a knee injury against the Bulls but the good news is that he will only be out for a month. It is a tough break for Kallum after just two games back but I am sure he will be back soon and stronger than ever. Carl Ablett will probably revert to centre for us so we will have to shuffle things around in that respect.

HOW HIGHLY DO YOU RATE WIGAN?

They are in outstanding form at present and will be a big challenge for us. I am sure every coach in Super League will know what Wigan do but stopping them is a different matter. What Wigan do, they do very well and you only had to watch the first twenty minutes against St Helens to see them at their best, executing their plan to perfection.

In Sam Tomkins they have a world class player and someone I think is an incredible talent. He has lit up Super League in recent years and whilst, we will be trying to make him look bad on Friday night, he is someone I like. He is a tough fella who seems to be dealing with the pressures of being the figure head for his team well.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO BUILD ON LAST WEEK'S WIN?

It is very important that we look to build momentum over the next few weeks. We have got Wigan this week and then Warrington the following week which are two very tough challenges. This is an important stage of the season for all clubs and I am sure all teams will be hoping to put a run together in the next few months.\

Your thoughts?