Leeds Rhinos man ruled out through illness: Headingley pitch showing scars after Year of Culture concert

Off-season signing Derrell Olpherts, who had been named at centre in the initial squad, missed out because of illness so Levi Edwards stepped up off the bench.

The pitch at Headingley was showing signs of wear and tear before the pre-season game.

While three-quarters of the surface was in pristine condition, a section at the Western Terrace end was bare of grass in patches.

That was a result of the Awakening concert – launching Leeds’ Year of Culture – at the stadium three weeks ago.

Special lights have been used to promote grass growth in the affected area.