Leeds Rhinos’ bad boy James Bentley reckons he’s finally curbed his temper.
The abrasive Ireland second-row endured a nightmare start after moving to his hometown club from St Helens last term. He was sent-off on debut and before June had been hammered with three different bans totalling nine games. But Bentley sorted out his discipline issues and helped resurgent Leeds reach Old Trafford where they lost out to Saints.
He represented Ireland at the World Cup but was in the headlines again off the pitch for an alleged bust-up with England’s Victor Radley at England’s team hotel. Although not naming Bentley in their statement, the RFL deemed he had used “inappropriate” behaviour and exonerated Radley of any blame. When asked if he’d grown on the field last season, Bentley said: “I’ve definitely matured.
