Leeds Rhinos: Victory is a relief for Rhinos boss Sinfield

WE NEEDED that. That was director of rugby Kevin Sinfield's reaction after Leeds Rhinos finally got back to winning ways.
Tom Briscoe scores for LeedsTom Briscoe scores for Leeds
Tom Briscoe scores for Leeds

Last night’s 34-0 drubbing of bottom club Widnes Vikings ended a run of nine Betfred Super League games without a victory.

Huddersfield Giants’ shock victory at Castleford Tigers means Rhinos will be condemned to the Qualifiers if both Catalans Dragons and Wakefield Trinity win this weekend.

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Despite that, Sinfield believes Rhinos are heading in the right direction and he said the win will give everyone in the camp a lift.

Jack Walker celebrates his try with Ash Handley.Jack Walker celebrates his try with Ash Handley.
Jack Walker celebrates his try with Ash Handley.

“It’s good,” he said. “I think everybody needed it. The last two weeks have been a challenge for us, trying to change a few things.

“I’m delighted for the players and staff. They’ve been good and they got a reward for their efforts tonight.

“Our pack was very strong and when we were direct we looked very good.

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“We still go away from the plan at times, but when we were relentless we had some really good spells.

Ryan Hall looks for a passRyan Hall looks for a pass
Ryan Hall looks for a pass

“The big pleasing thing was the zero. Our effort in defence the last two weeks has been pretty good.”

Rhinos’ fate is in other sides’ hands, but Sinfield insisted: “The focus for me is next Friday at Salford and controlling what we can control.

“Tonight we made some strides. There’s a lot to fix up, but a win helps.

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“We are back on track, but we’ve got to build some momentum.”

Sinfield confirmed Rhinos are “still actively looking” to add to their squad before next Friday’s transfer deadline.

Widnes coach Francis Cummins – like Sinfield a former Rhinos captain – said: “I thought Leeds played well, but they are allowed to. It was the worst performance while I’ve been in charge. To a man, we’ve embarrassed ourselves.”

Ryan Hall and Jack Walker both failed to finish the game, but Sinfield said neither injury was serious.