Reacting to the engage Super League fixture list, which was published today, McClennan said: "I am only looking up to the Melbourne game, on February 28.

"We've got four games before then – away to Crusaders, home to Castleford, away at Wakefield and then Salford at home.

"It's two of the bottom teams from last season, plus local derbies against two teams who did extremely well in 2009.

"Who's to know what's to happen against Crusaders and Salford? Last year proved that clubs advance very quickly.

"Castleford, in particular, rose up the ladder and Hull KR have really progressed since they were promoted.

"They will all be tough games and it is a good lead-up for us."

The Leeds boss added: "First and foremost, we'll have to play really well to get the two points against these four sides.

"If we do that, we will be really happy – and most importantly we will be getting ready and sharpening our swords for Melbourne Storm."

Tigers face the toughest-possible start, away to the three-time champions.

Cas suffered a record 76-12 defeat at Leeds in August, but coach Terry Matterson is putting a brave face on his side's first game.

"We can only do better than we have done there previously," he said.

"We have got to play them at some stage and I don't think it matters when.

"I'm not sure if it is a good time or a bad time to play them.

"They will have got a game under their belt, but the conditions probably won't be great. We are going to have some consistency in our squad, there's not going to be a lot of changes from this year, so that will probably help us.

"They are a quality side and they probably look stronger with Greg Eastwood and Brett Delaney coming in, so it will be a good test for us."

After facing Leeds, Tigers open their home account against Challenge Cup holders Warrington Wolves on Saturday, February 13.

For the second successive year, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats will play their opening game the week before round one.

Wakefield will travel to Harlequins on Saturday, January 30, in a game brought forward from round three, when Quins will be taking on Melbourne in a World Club Challenge warm-up.

Wakefield also kicked off a week before most of their rivals last term and coach John Kear said: "We'll still get our full preparation up to Christmas, but you expect six or seven weeks after that and we've got four.

"It is not ideal, but it is something we have got to live with. Rather than moan or groan, we'll get on with it."

Kear is upbeat about a tough start which sees them follow the London trip with home games against Catalans Dragons and Leeds, a bye and then a trip to St Helens.