Leeds In Good Shape For Usa Trip
engage Super League Champions Leeds Rhinos will travel to Jacksonville in Florida this Thursday after an emphatic 50-4 win over Oldham in Kevin Sinfield's Testimonial game.
The Rhinos head to America for a ten day training camp which will include a high profile game against South Sydney Rabbitohs, who are co-owned by Hollywood star Russell Crowe, on Saturday 26th January in the University of North Florida.
New Head Coach Brian McClennan is pleased with his side's progress as they prepare for the start of the defence of their title when Hull KR visit Headingley Carnegie for an all ticket game on Saturday 2nd February.
Commenting after Sunday's win McClennan said, "We got plenty out of the Oldham game and the timing of the trip to Florida is perfect, we really want to get onto some dry pitches; the Rhinos are a team that are better on top of the ground.
"Defensively we did well, Oldham were very brave, they contested throughout. We only conceded one try and it came off a kick and that was really pleasing, our defence is progressing really well and is going to get better too.
"The main thing on Sunday was to celebrate Kevin and it was a bit of a fairytale finish for him. Everyone can feel that they contributed in a special way to a special guy on his day. That was the key thing, he is held in such high regard and deservedly so."
Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield said it was a proud day for him as he celebrated his testimonial with two tries. "I was very proud to have all my family here to see me play in front of such a bunch of loyal fans. The supporters have been very supportive of me since my debut in 1997 and I really enjoyed it. I've never played against an Oldham side before so it was a little bit special ? I'm sure they let me through for those tries!"
Sinfield also paid tribute to his fellow team mates and the fans for their support, "The Leeds guys really put their hand up, it wasn't just a run out, it was a really important part of our preparation. It's vital to start piecing together what Brian wants. The crowd figure was great for this time of year and the weather that we've had, it was a big effort and I'd like to thank everyone who turned out; I really appreciate it and they played a key part in an important day for me."
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