Rhinos looking to maintain winning streak

The champions continue their Super League campaign as Wigan head into town in, what should be, a feisty encounter.

A win against the cherry-and-whites will consolidate their position at the top of the pile and keep the 100% record intact.

The 14-20 win over former coach Tony Smith’s side Warrington, showed the guile and determination of the players.

Danny McGuire’s try proved to be the match winner, as the Wolves were left rooted to the bottom of the table, leaving Smith with a big job on his hands.

However, they come up against a side that have picked up form, having started the season awfully.

Last weeks’ 44-10 demolition of Bradford showed how dangerous Brian Noble’s men are, even though some fans were calling for his head after just three games.

And the home side will be wary of this, as Noble has masterminded wins over the Rhinos on occasions in the past.

Yet, crucially, it has been Leeds who have come out on top in the final eliminator against Wigan in the past two years.

The victories gave them a passage into two Grand Finals, and we all know what happened after that.

Brent Webb returns to the side for his first game of the campaign after back surgery, having been out of action since last season’s game against Wigan.

Sadly, he was also unable to take part in his country’s World Cup triumph, something which will have been a bittersweet feeling for him.

Affectionately known by the fans as ‘Superman’, he will be hoping to continue his impressive record of 35 tries, in 47 games for the Rhinos.

Keith Senior misses out again with a shoulder problem and so Lee Smith should fill in, with Webb taking back his place at full-back.

A tight contest is on the cards, but Leeds should have enough to halt Wigan’s recent revival, piling the pressure back on Noble.

Shamoon Hafez

Interview: Brent Webb

Saturday 31st May 2008

Leeds Rhinos 23-16 Wigan Warriors
Challenge Cup Quarter Final
Headingley Carnegie, Leeds

Could you give us your view on todays game?

It was tough. I think we made it difficult for ourselves but at the end of the day, everyone is very happy with the result and to get into the next round of the cup.

Do you think this could be Leeds' year to lift the Challenge cup? Can you now go all the way to the final?

Yes, there is definitely belief that we can go all the way this year. We just need to take the next game as it comes and concentrate and perform well there.

It has turned out to be a good week for you, having been given a new contract and also scoring a try today; How happy are you at the club and why did you sign an extention when other teams were interested in you?

I'm delighted to be at the Leeds Rhinos. I was never interested in leaving the club but we talked about all the options and I am grateful to have sorted something out.

Finally, its a World Cup year; What do you think about New Zealand's chances of lifting the trophy this year?

I feel we have a good a chance as anyone else in the competition. If we turn up and play well in the games then we're in with a shot. The Kiwi's have a lot of talented players available and we can be a competitive side.

Shamoon Hafez