McDermott expecting enthusiasm from Hull KR
Leeds coach Brian McDermott does not know what to expect from Hull KR on Sunday, apart from a large dose of early season enthusiasm.
Rovers have made 13 new signings in the close season, so McDermott and his staff are unsure of where the main threats lie.
They do know that the new players will be keen to impress in front of the Robins’ passionate home faithful, however.
“Chris Chester came through from being the assistant coach to head coach last season whilst Willie Poching has now arrived as his assistant and naturally they too are going to have a period of transition,” said the Leeds coach.
“They have had a turnover of personnel during the close season so we don’t really know too much about how they will play tactically on Sunday.
“But what I do know for sure is that they will be full of enthusiasm in front of a sell out crowd. We know that we will face a tough game and we will need to be ready for that.”
McDermott also believes that the Super League restructure has, generally speaking, fired up people’s enthusiasm for the game.
“The adaptions to Super League seem to have whetted the appetite for everyone during the close season and I have sensed a genuine anticipation for the action to get back underway from all quarters,” he added.
“We are now down to twelve teams and the Super 8s are going to be fascinating when they come around. There is a positive outlook about Super League at the moment and long may that continue.”
As for Sunday’s team selection, only one player is unavailable through injury.
“We are only missing Brett Delaney through injury,” the coach confirmed.
“He had knee surgery in the off season and whilst our physio Andy Barker has now given him the all clear.
“He has not been able to do much running in pre-season so we will give him a bit more time to get right for the challenges of Super League.
“He will probably miss the first two games, then we have a week off for the World Club Series, and I would expect him to be back in contention the week after that to face Huddersfield.
“He is important to what we are about but it is key to get him right.”