Rohan Smith hails ‘brave’ Leeds performance in victory over Hull KR

Josh McAllister 13 Aug 2022 10:19 AM

Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith praised his side’s ‘brave’ performance after they fought back to claim a 28-20 victory over Hull KR at Craven Park.

The hosts had led 10-0 until a brace from Richie Myler and another from Brad Dwyer gave Leeds a 18-14 lead at the break.

A further two tries from young Morgan Gannon ensured the victory and further strengthened their sixth-place in the Super League table.

However, the victory came with a cost. England World Cup hopeful Harry Newman left the field with another hamstring issue.

Cameron Smith and Bodene Thompson were also both forced from the field with injuries.

“It was a brave performance,” said Smith.

“We lost a few players earlier in the week, then lost Cameron Smith, Bodene Thompson and Harry Newman.

“We had people playing everywhere, but everyone dug in and I think we were pretty calm throughout.”

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The Rhinos have now won six of their last seven Super League games. They are currently three points clear ahead of play-off chasing rivals Salford, Hull and Hull KR.

“Of course I’m proud of this squad,” Smith added.

“When you come in mid-season, you don’t know exactly what you’re going to get, but I felt I’d done enough research to know the situation wasn’t too bad despite how it looked from the outside.

“Perhaps I got here at the right time, as the group was already a good one. But it stems from work in pre-season and everywhere in between. It’s not all about the last couple of months.”

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