Leigh Centurions v Leeds Rhinos: Five talking points ahead of tonight's game

Leeds Rhinos continue their Betfred Super League campaign tonight with a trip to promoted Leigh Centurions.
Danny McGuire watches Leeds Rhinos' game against St Helens from the stands.Danny McGuire watches Leeds Rhinos' game against St Helens from the stands.
Danny McGuire watches Leeds Rhinos' game against St Helens from the stands.

Both teams are looking to get off the mark after defeats in round one. Here are five talking points ahead of the game.

1: It’s too early to be a genuine must-win, but pressure is on Rhinos to claim the two points. If they are going to get back into the top-eight this year – never mind the top-four – it’s the sort of match they can’t afford to lose.

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2: Fingers crossed for Danny McGuire. The return of their captain and half-back, who played only 13 times in 2016 and missed last week’s league opener, will give Rhinos a boost. Leeds need their halves fit and playing well or it will be another disappointing campaign.

Jack Ormondroyd
.Jack Ormondroyd
.
Jack Ormondroyd .

3: Early indications are Rhinos’ defence is in good shape, but they need more options and invention on attack. Getting the ball to their dangerous outside-backs is the key and if Leeds can do that, Leigh will struggle to hold them.

4: Big prop Jack Ormondroyd has been named in the 19 for a second successive week after impressing in pre-season and for Featherstone Rovers on dual-registration. He is highly-rated by Championship observers and it would be good to see him get a Super League chance sooner rather than later.

5: Leigh haven’t beaten Leeds since an 18-6 Stones Bitter Championship win at Hilton Park on February 7, 1988. Leeds have won 13 of the 14 meetings since then, with an away draw in November, 1992.