The next round in the relegation battle continues as Leeds Rhinos host Hull Kingston Rovers. Here’s everything you need to know…
TEAM FORM GUIDE
Leeds
It has been another tough season for the Rhinos as they continue to transition to life without Kevin Sinfield’s treble-winning side in 2015.
As of recently they have shown plenty of promise in looking to stay in Super League next season when they beaten their Yorkshire rivals Castleford at The Jungle.
Hull KR
Rovers have spent recent years in the bottom half of the table and judging by their transfer window they have brought in quality over quantity but it has all been underwhelming for the East Hull side.
They’ve now brought in former Leeds coach Tony Smith until the end of the season in hopes of finishing as high up the table as they can.
SQUAD NEWS
Leeds
Craig Agar makes one change as Brad Singleton is ruled out through suspension and so he is replaced in the squad by Jamie Jones-Buchanan.
Leeds’ squad: Jack Walker, Tom Briscoe, Konrad Hurrell, Ash Handley, Richie Myler, Adam Cuthbertson, Trent Merrin, Brad Dwyer, Liam Sutcliffe, Brett Ferres, Mikolaj Oledzki, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Cameron Smith, James Donaldson, Harry Newman, Ava Seumanufagui, Shaun Lunt, Robert Lui, Rhyse Martin.
Hull KR
Half-back Danny McGuire and full-back Adam Quinlan are both named in the side following knocks picked up at the DW Stadium last week. Overall the side remains unchanged.
Hull KR’s squad: Adam Quinlan, Craig Hall, Ben Crooks, Jimmy Keinhorst, Ryan Shaw, Danny McGuire, Robbie Mulhern, Mose Masoe, Joel Tomkins, Weller Hauraki, Mitch Garbutt, Chris Atkin, George Lawler, Kane Linnett, Josh Drinkwater, Daniel Murray, Harvey Livett, Luis Johnson, Matt Parcell.
HEAD TO HEAD
It has been very close between the two sides in recent years and that’s been the case this season. Rovers beat Leeds at home by 45 points to 26 whereas the latter beat the former 28 points to 24 in the reverse fixture.
Both sides haven’t been so fortunate when travelling away from home which could turn in Leeds favour. However Rovers beaten Leeds at Headingley last year by 38 points to 36 in what was a fantastic game of Rugby League.
KEY BATTLE
Jamie Jones Buchanan (Leeds) v Danny McGuire (Hull KR)
It will be a memorable occasion for Hull KR’s half-back as he makes his final career appearance at Headlingley where he developed his decorated career.
He will be going up against his former teammate JJB who is also running on his last legs but as of yet he hasn’t announced his retirement.
Those memories will be put aside once again as both sides require these players to add their experience to their respective sides in what will be a crucial relegation battle.
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
Date: Friday 12th July 2019
Venue: Headingley Carnegie Stadium
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Referee: Robert Hicks
WHO WILL WIN?
Leeds by four.
