Coach vows 'we'll do the right thing' as Leeds Rhinos freshen up for Wakefield Trinity Challenge Cup derby
Boss Brad Arthur has pledged Leeds Rhinos will be refreshed and ready for Friday’s knockout derby at Wakefield Trinity.
The Betfred Challenge Cup fourth round tie comes just five days after Leeds’ 22-4 defeat of Castleford Tigers in Betfred Super League and with them back in the country less than two weeks following their trip to Las Vegas. Arthur admitted his side looked “tired” against Tigers, but insists they will be reenergised when they take to the field at Belle Vue.
“We will do the right thing,” Arthur insisted. “Adam [Megretton, head of strength and conditioning] and Ferg [David Ferguson, lead physio] do a really good job with our recovery process and making sure we look after the boys.
“We probably won’t do a lot this week, it’ll just be getting them to Friday. I think they are pretty clear on how we need to play and what works for us and what doesn’t, so how we get them there in the best state physically will be our priority. I said [after Sunday’s game] ‘enjoy the win, focus on getting some rest and recovery and we’ll see them in a couple of days’.”
Rhinos have a wretched recent record in the Challenge Cup, having not beaten a Super League side since their Wembley triumph against Salford Red Devils six years ago. They crashed out away to St Helens last season and Arthur is keen to make more of an impact this time.
“I am looking forward to it, it’s great,” he said of Friday’s tie. “We were disappointed with how we bowed out pretty early last year and we get the opportunity to try and get it right this time round. I am excited about the format of the Challenge Cup, I like it and want to be part of it for a lot longer than this week.”