Resurgent Rhinos face Robins at Headingley as they hunt playoff berth

Leeds Rhinos welcome Hull KR to Headingley tonight as they eye up a spot in the top six.

The Rhinos have been very inconsistent this season, and their last five games is the perfect reflection of this; back to back loses to bottom sides Wakefield and Castleford, followed swiftly by three wins over Huddersfield, Warrington and Salford.

However, these three wins on the spin have lit a fire in the Rhinos belly. Blake Austin is at the heart of their good form, playing some truly fantastic rugby against Huddersfield and Warrington. He’s not the only one to hit form though, the outgoing Sam Walters has been playing like a man possessed in recent weeks and is becoming a key man for the Rhinos, and Wigan fans will be licking their lips watching him. If Leeds are to overcome the Robins, these two will need to carry on their good form.

Rohan Smith has named his 21-man-squad for the clash, which sees in-form man Austin return to the side, who will reunite with halfback partner Aidan Sezer. Elsewhere, Justin Sangare returns to the squad in place of James Donaldson. Jack Sinfield also comes into the squad after his impressive performance for England academy last weekend.

Whilst the Rhinos have been in sparkling form of late, it hasn’t been like this in East Yorkshire.

Hull KR made a brilliant start to the season, however, as was the case last season, injuries have put a dampener on things and they now sit outside the top six.

The Robins still have the ability to cause some damage, with the like of Ethan Ryan, Ryan Hall and Louis Senior all capable of causing Leeds problems tonight. Another player that will attract interest will be Jack Walker. The former Rhino was impressive last week in the derby, and if fit, will be hoping for a similar performance at Headingley.

Willie Peters has named his side for tonight’s clash, which sees new signing Brad Schneider named for his debut. The halfback arrived from Canberra in the week, and is the perfect replacement for the injured Jordan Abdull. Rowan Milnes looks set to feature alongside Schneider in the halves, as Mikey Lewis is unavailable. In the pack, James Batchelor is named in the squad and could start. George King is also included in the squad and will make up a heavy duty pack for the Robins.

A win for both teams is vital. They both come into the game on 18 points, and a win for either side would see them enter the top six on points difference. But who will take this chance? It promises to be a belter at Headingley.

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