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Leeds Rhinos v Manly Sea Eagles: Sinfield out to exploit home comforts
Kevin Sinfield.
Leeds Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield is confident the Super League champions can turn the tables on Manly Sea Eagles in Friday’s Heinz Big Soup World Club Challenge.
The England stand-off is one of 12 survivors from the Rhinos team that lost 28-20 to the Sydney outfit at Elland Road in 2009 and believes they are primed to gain their revenge on their own turf at Headingley.
“I think we were a good side back then but we’ve had some strife since then and I think we’re better prepared for this one,” Sinfield said.
Leeds will go into their fifth world title contest on the back of a first defeat in eight matches, following their 20-6 setback at Wigan last Saturday, but Sinfield is convinced they will go into Friday’s game in good shape.
They have had the benefit of playing two tough Super League matches whereas the Australian champions will be playing their first competitive match since their Grand Final win over New Zealand Warriors last October.
“We’ll be ready come Friday,” Sinfield added.
“It’s still early in the week and we’re still fixing some things up from Saturday’s game. We need to be better on Friday.
“We’re looking forward to it and it’s great that it’s at Headingley.
“I don’t think Manly have had a game yet and the fact that we’ve got 160 minutes under our belt is hopefully going to be important for us.
“Both games we’ve had so far have been tough. We’re certainly battle-hardened and ready for this one.
“But we’re preparing for a tough game. I suspect it will be pretty similar to last time.
“They’ve some great players on show. There’s a lot at stake and hopefully we can perform.”
Leeds have a major doubt over winger Lee Smith, who picked up a rib injury at Wigan, and will monitor the progress of centre Kallum Watkins after he missed that match with a wrist problem.
Manly will be at full strength, with Australia Test winger David Williams cleared to make his comeback from a broken neck.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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