McDermott ready for Wigan challenge

Leeds coach Brian McDermott says it doesn’t come any bigger than a trip to Wigan, as they prepare to do battle at the DW Stadium on Friday night.

It’s a repeat of last year’s qualifying semi-final, when the Rhinos, having been ClubCalled by the Warriors, won a thrilling game 13-12.

The two sides also clashed at the DW Stadium earlier this month, with Leeds running out 20-6 winners – their fourth victory in the last five meetings between the two sides.

McDermott said: “It doesn’t come any bigger than a trip to Wigan. It will be a tough game. We’ve showed some form towards the back end of this year, but I know we’ll have to show our best performance to beat them at their place, especially with a Grand Final place at stake.

“We don’t have the greatest league form against Wigan in recent years. When you go to Wigan in their back yard, you know it is going to be a huge task.

“Other than one or two adjustments offensively, there is not that much you can do at this time of the year. Either Warrington or Wigan would be a huge task. We are going to Wigan and we know we have really got to ante up to get a result.

“In terms of preparation Wigan have been given more time, and although that might have a bearing, I think the endeavour and determination in our squad will be enough to overcome the injury concerns we have got.”

Wigan’s win at Huddersfield in the first week of the play-offs saw them enjoy a week off competitive action, while Leeds took part in a gripping play-off against St Helens, which they won 11-10.

That win may have come at a cost, with injury doubts over Brett Delaney, Ben Jones-Bishop and Danny McGuire ahead of this Friday’s clash.

A win on Friday would see Leeds reach their eighth Grand Final in 10 years.