Leeds Rhinos will not change their approach to the Challenge Cup as they prepare to face Wakefield Trinity. The Rhinos are looking to progress to the quarter-final stage of the competition for the first time in six years.
Brad Arthur’s side take on Wakefield Trinity live on the BBC this Friday. Leeds have not reached the last eight or beyond since they last lifted the trophy in 2020.
Rhinos’ Focus on the Cup
Arthur told BBC Radio Leeds that they understand that it’s make or break. There’s no second chance with it, and he believes the team is aware of that.
“We just need to play our game, believe in what we do, and give it our best shot,” Arthur said.
He added that they are putting the same emphasis on it as last year. Arthur also said that they are in a good position, they’ve got a good squad, and they know how they want to play.
Arthur’s Appreciation for the Competition
Arthur’s first experience of the Challenge Cup last year ended with his side being knocked out at the fourth round stage by St Helens.
He has come to realise the importance of the competition since his arrival from Australia.
“It means something to me too. I like the format, I like the idea of it, and I want to be a part of right to the end,” he added.
Arthur recognises it’s not easy, it’s tough, and there’s a bit of the luck of the draw along the way, but he likes it.
Trinity Looking for a Big Performance
Wakefield come into the game having beaten Hull FC last week. Daryl Powell believes his side are due a big performance.
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Powell said they’ve won two from four in the league which is an alright start. But he thinks they can play much better at the moment.
“Leeds have hit the ground absolutely flying and they’ll be pretty big favourites for this game I would say.”
For Wakefield, Powell thinks there’s a really good game right around the corner and he’d like to think it’s in this game.
Wakefield most recently reached a Challenge Cup final in 1979, but the club have recent Wembley pedigree.
Powell led them to victory in the 1895 Cup against Sheffield Eagles and would love to steer them to the national stadium again.
Rhinos’ Recent Form
Leeds have been in impressive form this season. They have won three games on the bounce headed into the tie.
- Leeds beat Hull KR in Las Vegas less than two weeks ago.
- Arthur said his side are set to press on with their season despite their transatlantic travels.
- “Our performance guys have looked after them really well before and after Vegas,” Arthur added.
Arthur also mentioned that they’ve not done a lot of training across the last couple of weeks, and will return to normal next week.
Brad Arthur was knocked out at this stage of the competition last season, in his first Challenge Cup campaign.