Ablett aware of no second chances for Leeds

Leeds Rhinos backrower Carl Ablett is well aware of what is at stake in his team’s elimination play-off clash with Catalan Dragons this week.

Leeds finished in sixth place in the final Super League table, leaving them facing a tough path to the Grand Final.

“There’s no second chances now and this is something everyone is aware of,” said Ablett.

“It’s 10 out of 10 performances from now on. Six and seven are not acceptable.We can do as much planning as possible in the video room but it all comes down to that 80 minutes on the pitch.

“There is no team going into the play-offs thinking that they’ve done well to finish in the top eight. Everyone is thinking that they can get on a roll and make the Grand Final.

“I couldn’t tell you who we could possibly face next. It’s a case of beating Catalans on Saturday and going from there.”

Ablett is also expecting Catalan to pose a tough set of questions for the Rhinos, with the French outfit having found some form in recent weeks.

“We’re expecting a tough game and if you look at the way they’ve finished the season they are one of the in-form teams,” he added.

“They’ve got a bit of momentum behind them now and whenever we play them it’s always a real battle!

“Three of their players are in the top 10 try-scorers in Super League at the moment. This year we have been proud of the way we have defended and have the best record in the league to show so we’ll be looking to keep these guys quiet.

“It’s difficult in our game to focus on one guy such as Morgan Escare. He’s quick, elusive and can pop up anywhere so we’ll have to make sure we have a solid defensive line when we kick downfield to him.”