'I believe we can win the Grand Final' '“ Brian McDermott buoyant after Leeds Rhinos victory

Rhinos responded to their record 66-10 loss at Castleford Tigers eight days earlier by running up their highest score against top-flight opposition since August 2015.

McDermott described Rhinos as “really good” and he insisted: “I believe we can win the Grand Final.

“Sometimes you have got to be kicked in the groin to find out the best of you.

“This does not write off last week, it still hurts, we are still embarrassed by it, but I have got the best job in the game and part of that is dealing with the losses.

“Tonight was a good night, but we’ve got to knock about another 10 versions of tonight together over the next few weeks.”

McDermott felt his team handled a difficult night “extremely well.”

He said their attacking display proved Rhinos’ system works and he singled out Danny McGuire, Jimmy Keinhorst, Joel Moon – who played in the halves – and Adam Cuthbertson for special praise.

The coach also felt hooker Matt Parcell had his best game since joining the club and hailed full-back Ashton Golding for a remarkable try-saving tackle on Justin Horo in the first half.

He said: “For him to react with such urgency was as good as you’ll see. Last week he copped some stick, some of that stick is unfair. Tonight he looked strong.”

Rhinos next match is a home derby with Wakefield Trinity on Friday.