James Bentley admits he would love to recreate some happy childhood memories in this season’s Challenge Cup after a nightmare start to his Leeds Rhinos career. The close-season signing from Super League champions St Helens made a dream switch to Headingley during the off-season.
He was born and raised in Leeds and supported the club during his formative years, often travelling to Wembley or Old Trafford to follow them in numerous major finals. After being sent off on his debut Rhinos debut in the season-opener at home to Warrington Wolves – earning him a four-match ban – Bentley returned to action in last week’s defeat at Salford Red Devils.
The dismal defeat prompted Richard Agar to step down as head coach but Bentley believes Leeds can ignite their campaign in today’s Challenge Cup sixth-round tie at home to rivals Castleford Tigers.
“My debut obviously didn’t go the way I wanted it to,” the second-rower told Rugby League Live. “To then miss four games through suspension made it even harder to take so I’ve had a bit of a slow start to the year.
“Rich Hunwicks looked after me and gave me loads of work to do during my ban, plus I did my best to help the lads through the week in terms of getting them prepped for the games. But I’m back now and just want to get playing some good stuff.
“I’m working on my game and want to get better every week. The full focus is on the Challenge Cup and we know what we need to do in order to get the result against Castleford.”
Club legend Jamie Jones-Buchanan has been made interim head coach following Agar’s departure. Bentley grew up watching the homegrown second-rower in Leeds’ all-conquering golden generation side.
“He’s simplified everything and made it really clear what he wants from us,” said the 24-year-old. "I think he’s done really well with the lads in terms of picking everyone up and getting them back together.
“We’ve had a really good week’s training and everyone is raring to go now, especially in this weather. It’s the Challenge Cup and a massive competition in rugby league.
“I’ve got pictures of me at Wembley as a kid in Leeds Rhinos kits. I’d love to go back there myself and play in a Challenge Cup final for Leeds, especially after missing out last year with Saints through injury.
“To go all the way in this competition with Leeds would literally be a boyhood dream come true.”
