Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith took heart from Harry Newman’s display in Thursday’s thumping 42-12 defeat at St Helens. The England World Cup hopeful has endured a difficult 2022 campaign after aggravating a previous hamstring injury during the 34-18 win at Wakefield Trinity on March 3.
He underwent surgery but, after three months on the sidelines, Newman is now fully fit and returned to action earlier this month in the 30-16 defeat at Huddersfield Giants. The centre’s outing in last night’s defeat to Saints was his first 80-minute performance of the season and he marked it with a classy try which underlined his talent.
“Harry Newman showed what he can do,” said Smith. “He attacked the ball, made the most of it, and played with high energy. It was an impressive first 80 minute-performance of the season from him. Yes, it was a positive.”
But there was little else to cheer for the Rhinos as they suffered more disciplinary problems which could result in further suspensions. James Bentley was shown a yellow card for a professional foul, Bodene Thompson was sinbinned for tripping and Zane Tetevano was sent off for cleaning out former team-mate Konrad Hurrell.
“Bodene Thompson got caught off balance,” said Smith. “The tackle on Hurrell looked spectacular but I haven't seen the point of contact, I was trying to make an interchange at the time. I don't know what happened with James Bentley, I didn't see it.”
Leeds were ultimately outclassed by the defending champions but Smith refused to be downbeat about their overall display. He added: “There were plenty of things I liked. We came to play and had a good crack.
“We stretched them a few times early in the piece. At half-time I didn't think the score was reflective and at 20-12 it was game on but we lost a bit of composure at the back end.”
Rhino winger Ash Handley was forced off through injury in the second half and could now miss next Saturday’s trip to Hull FC. Smith said: “He wouldn’t have wanted to come off if he could finish the game, but I haven’t spoken to the doctor yet. It was enough to warrant coming off, so he would have to be in doubt for next week.”
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