McDermott defiant after Leeds stung by Salford

Leeds boss Brian McDermott says he isn’t feeling any pressure and believes the Rhinos can still make the top eight despite their terrible start.

Leeds went down to Salford by four points last night, their eighth loss in 2016 and the first time they have been defeated by the Red Devils away from Headingley in 23 years.

But McDermott remains confident that his teetering team can turn things around.

“The players are tied together, the players are strong,” the coach said.

“It’s unbelievably frustrating for those on the sidelines watching this unfold, the injured players watching this unfold.

“We’re managing all that. We’re going through some experiences together as a group, which is not easy, but I don’t think anybody’s going home racked with self-doubt.

“It’s clear what we need to do and it’s clear how we’ve got to do it.”

McDermott said the Rhinos have had to deal with several issues this season but maintained his side is “alright”.

“I could sit here try and try and fluff you and say we’re alright,” he said.

“But the truth is, we are alright. The confidence levels aren’t… you know there are certain things, and I say it every week, you try and find different ways of saying the same thing.

“But the level of preparation we’ve aren’t able to do or haven’t been able to do because of the flood, and because of the injuries, have had a bearing.

“They’ve absolutely had a bearing. But I can’t use that line for too long though. We need to come up with some decent performances that get us a win.”