Leeds Rhinos reaction: Rohan Smith hails defence, bemoans 'appalling attack' and gives injury update

Smith had mixed emotions following his side’s fifth successive victory, being disappointed with their attack - particularly after half-time - but delighted with the way they defended.

The win lifted Rhinos above Castleford Tigers and opened a three-point gap on seventh-placed Salford Red Devils, who visit Catalans Dragons on Saturday.

“I have allowed myself to be satisfied for half an hour about our defence, but the table’s not of any interest to me,” Smith said.

Rhinos seemed to have the game won when they led 24-6 at half-time, but were forced to dig deep in the second 40.

Smith reflected: “It was pleasing to defend our way to a win.

“We defended our line well for the whole game.

“The scoreboard got tight, there was a lot at stake and people kept doing their job.

“I am known for focusing on what we can improve on and we will do that, but at this minute it's time to reflect a bit and enjoy the defensive performance.”

But Smith admitted: “Our attack was appalling in the second half.

“We didn't value possession, we turned it over too much.”

Smith paid tribute to the 13,000 crowd for their role in Rhinos’ victory.

“The roar at the end of the game gave me goosebumps,” he said.

Rhinos lost winger Liam Tindall to a hand injury after 20 minutes.

“He has done something reasonably serious with his thumb,” Smith revealed.

“We’ll have to get that checked out.

“He is a seriously tough kid and we wouldn’t have come off if he didn’t have to.”

Meanwhile, Rhinos full-back Jack Walker’s season is over.

Walker joined Hull on loan last month after recovering from a long-term hamstring injury, but suffered ankle damage against St Helens last week and will undergo surgery.