Rohan Smith is being showered in praise after overseeing an astonishing turnaround at Leeds Rhinos. The Australian, who joined the club in May, has guided the Rhinos to a Grand Final, four months after inheriting a side that was eleventh on the table just before his arrival.
An astonishing turnaround has left Leeds just 80 minutes away from a first Grand Final win in five years following a superb run of form under the Australian. Leeds have won 13 of their last 17 matches, which first saw them secure a place in the play-offs and then navigate their way through Catalans and the Warriors.
Understandably, praise has been frequent for Smith after they booked their place at Old Trafford. The tributes were lead by popular Australian commentator Andrew Voss, who tweeted: "Well done Rohan Smith in guiding @leedsrhinos to the @SuperLeague grand final. He has done a remarkable job after linking with the club when they had just 3 wins."
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Speaking of North Devils, Smith's former club were also quick to send their congratulations. He coached the club to the Queensland Cup title last season, which saw him earn his move to Super League.
Meanwhile, former Leeds Rhinos player and current Sky Sports pundit Barrie McDermott was keen to praise both Smith and his Wigan counterpart, Matt Peet. "Matty Peet is a very classy and is articulate when he speaks from the heart," he said. "Rohan Smith was too emotional to speak but still said the right things well done gentleman you’ve done our sport proud.
Praise also came for Gary Hetherington, the man who made the appointment. Former Super League referee Richard Silverwood said: "Gary Hetherinton has copped an awful amount these last few years but you have to say his b**** of steel to tip his hat and give Rohan Smith the job when plenty said crazy decision is another outstanding decision by him."
The Rhinos will look to get the job done in the Grand Final at Old Trafford next week.
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