Hull KR are dangerous, says Leuluai
Leeds front-rower Kylie Leuluai has described Hull KR as a dangerous opponent and the Rhinos can’t afford to underestimate them in the Challenge Cup final.
The Robins have surprised many with their unlikely run to Wembley, upsetting both Wigan and Warrington along the way.
But Leuluai is adamant Leeds won’t be complacement this Saturday against Hull KR.
“They’re very dangerous,” he said.
“The season obviously hasn’t been too good for them in terms of Super League but in the Challenge Cup they’ve knocked off some big puppies. They’re definitely a dangerous team to play otherwise they could do what they’ve done to other teams like Wigan and Warrington. Knocking those two off, that’s huge.”
Leeds are currently top of Super League and have secured another appearance at Wembley 12 months after they won the Challenge Cup. The veteran prop said the whole Rhinos squad is working hard together to achieve more success.
“I don’t know, everyone’s just on the same page,” Leuluai said.
“The goals are to be reached, but there’s competition for places as well, we’ve got myself and others retiring. Everyone’s just doing everything they can to be involved in these games. The results have come our way, which is great.”
The 2015 final will be the fourth Challenge Cup decider Leuluai has been involved in, after losses to Wigan and Warrington in 2011 and 2012 and the triumph over Castleford last year.
“All in all it’s been a great experience the past three previous times we’ve been to Wembley,” the Kiwi forward said.
“Even losing though it’s still a good weekend to get away, besides the defeat. I’m very excited to get back there again.”
Leuluai will retire at the end of this season after 16 years in first-grade in the NRL and Super League. The 37-year old former Samoan international is looking to finish his career on a high.
“It’ll be good to go out with a blast,” he said.
“Wembley’s the best weekend of the year to be honest, going down to London this time of the year. Just the excitement of playing at Wembley, we’re there for four years and it’s basically a working holiday if there’s a reward with things going your way.
“I’m looking forward to retirement. Once I made up my mind at the start of the season, I haven’t been counting down, but I’m looking forward to having the weekends with my children and my family.”