Leeds Rhinos forward James Donaldson admits the fierce competition for places at Headingley will keep him on his toes – but believes he has laid down a marker.
The Cumbrian back-rower came off the bench and performed impressively during Saturday’s Super League opener at home to Warrington Wolves.
Rhinos head coach Richard Agar is blessed with options in the second-row department and Alex Mellor was left out of the squad altogether at the weekend.
“I was pleased with the energy I brought to the team,” said Donaldson after a short but typically hard-working stint.
“That’s a massive thing for me within this team.
“When we’re struggling for energy in the last 10 minutes before half-time, it’s about coming on and picking it up and trying to lift the boys when they’re tired.
“There is competition right across the board, for myself and for every player in that team.
“There are young boys pushing at our heels and also guys with experience, so it’s a good environment to be in.
“You know you have to bring your best game every week. If not, you’ll be sat on the sidelines the following week.
“That only breeds healthy competition, which in turn can only benefit the team.”
Despite the defeat to Daryl Powell’s men, Donaldson loved being part of an historic encounter which saw Channel 4 televise the game, making it the first-ever Super League encounter on terrestrial television.
Donaldson added: “It was bouncing and there is nothing better than running out at Headingley when it’s packed like it was on Saturday.
“I’m looking forward to hopefully running out again there in a couple of weeks against Catalans.”
Leeds look set to be without Rhyse Martin for a short period as he prepares to fly home to Australia following the passing of his father last week.
Despite his loss, Martin took to the field against Warrington and performed admirably.
“Rhyse is a really good friend of mine and I went round to be with him when he found out about his dad’s passing,” explained Donaldson.
“His wife and his little man are back in Australia visiting family, so it’s been a tough week for Rhyse.
“All the boys are trying to look after him as best we can, but obviously what he did on the field against Warrington was unbelievable.
“It just shows you what a tough player and resilient character he is.
“What he did after the tough week he’s had was amazing.”
