JJB calls for Leeds fans to March on Together

Leeds Rhinos second row Jamie Jones-Buchanan has called on the Leeds faithful to turn out in force when they take on Wigan Warriors in Saturday’s Carnegie Challenge Cup semi-final.

Jones-Buchanan, who was part of the Leeds side that beat St Helens in the 2011 Super League Grand Final, is relishing the chance to take on Wigan this weekend but is keen to ensure the Rhinos fans travel in their numbers and prevent the Warriors from taking over a small corner of Yorkshire.

“The Galpharm has been an incredible venue for semi-finals down the years and I am sure the atmosphere will be great again on Saturday,” said Jones-Buchanan.

“Wherever the Rhinos play, we are always backed by our passionate and loyal fans and I am sure, even if they are outnumbered on Saturday, that they won’t be out sung. We appreciate times are tough for supporters and those that can be there will be there on Saturday evening to cheer the boys on.

“It does make a huge difference to the team when you come out to that sort of reception. I remember last season when we played the Giants away in the play-offs, it felt like a home game when we ran out of the tunnel and immediately that gives you a lift.

“It is going to be tough against Wigan, they are the league leaders, the Cup holders and the form team in the competition and there will be times when we have to dig deep to keep them out and that is when the Leeds fans show their real worth to the side.

“I am really excited about the game, the team are in good spirits and we are ready for the challenge ahead.”