Hunslet challenge is a 'learning curve' for Leeds Rhinos' youngsters

Rhinos played two lower grade trial games last weekend, losing 34-22 at Featherstone Rovers a week ago and 52-8 away to Hunslet’s League One rivals Newcastle Thunder two days later.

Several of the Leeds team who featured against Featherstone are expected to be named on dual-registration in Rovers’ squad for Sunday’s Betfred Championship opener at Batley Bulldogs.

Their team to face Hunslet includes only Corey Hall, Jack Broadbent, Tyler Dupree, Muizz Mustapha and Sam Walters from Rhinos’ full-time squad, with the rest being reserve or academy players.

“It will be a good test,” Walker said. “I think they have shown little glimpses, particularly last Friday, that they have enough to compete.

“It is good learning for them to come up against a decent, well-coached League One team.

“It is a challenge, it will be a good experience and it is all about learning.”

Rhinos hit back strongly after trailing 22-0 at half-time to Rovers, but struggled to cope with Newcastle’s “physicality. Walker stressed: “We got it back to 16-4 just before half-time and put them under a bit of pressure, which was pleasing to see. I hope they’ll take a bit of confidence from that, that they can hold their own.”