James Donaldson believes Thursday’s dramatic 20-20 draw with Huddersfield Giants was “a step in the right direction” for Leeds Rhinos. The Headingley giants have endured a disastrous season which prompted head coach Richard Agar to step down last month because he felt his players were no longer responding to him.
Interim boss Jamie Jones-Buchanan had presided over two comprehensive defeats prior to the visit of the Giants, where Leeds threw away victory late on by conceding two tries in the last three minutes. Nevertheless, picking up a point at least stopped the rot ahead of the Easter Monday trip to Castleford Tigers, who recently dumped the Rhinos out of the Challenge Cup.
Donaldson told Rugby League Live: “It was definitely more of a team performance. We worked hard for each other and it was just that last three minutes, but I think that’s just our luck at the moment. When the odds are stacked against you as a team, you don’t get the bounce of the ball.
Read more: Zane Tetevano banned again as Leeds Rhinos lose marquee forward once more
“There were a few things which happened at the end of the Huddersfield game that were really disappointing. We got a point so it’s a step forward in the right direction and, while it’s not a win, it’s better than a loss. We go again on Monday at Cas.”
Castleford have blown hot and cold this season but won comfortably at Wakefield Trinity on Thursday and Donaldson is expecting a tough encounter at Wheldon Road. The Cumbrian back-rower is ready to play his second game in five days, saying: “We’re building, we’re improving, and we’ll look to put a better performance in again on Monday. I’m ready to back up in any game they want me to.”
Teenage stand-off Jack Sinfield is edging closer to a senior debut for the Rhinos following his promotion to the first-team squad at the start of the season. The son of legendary former Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield has impressed Donaldson with his attitude and professionalism.
“Jack’s only 17 and it takes a bit of time to adjust to full-time training,” said Donaldson, who made his Super League debut for Bradford Bulls as a teenager in 2009. “But he’s very professional and I just look at him and see his dad to be fair – the way he acts, the way he speaks and the way he conducts himself. He showed his talent with his drop-goal for the Academy in the win over Wigan on Thursday and I think there is a lot more to come from him.”
