Rhinos ‘dominant’ – Toovey

Manly coach Geoff Toovey says he’s well aware of the size of the task facing his side in the form of Leeds, when the two teams meet in the World Club Challenge.

The Sea Eagles are due to arrive in the UK this weekend in preparation for the match against the Rhinos at Elland Road on February 17.

And Toovey says its not just the cold weather that has them worried.

“They’re a big side, tough side. They’ve been very dominant over the last few years in England,” he said.

“Their size alone means a very powerful pack and once again those conditions, I’m sure they’re going to try and use them to their advantage.”

A win against the Rhinos would give the Sea Eagles a real boost, according to Toovey, ahead of a tough NRL opening campaign.

“We’ve got a tough start to the season,” Toovey said.

“We’ve got a lot of games away from home, with our first trip over to meet the Warriors in a grand final replay, then straight back in five days to play the Tigers up at Gosford on the Friday night.

“That’s a great challenge for us, and that’s how we’re looking at it – as a challenge.

“If we can get through those two or three games, we’ll be looking really good.”