3:23:47 > 3:23:48Hello. It's little more than ten weeks
3:23:48 > 3:23:52since the heartbreaking end to England's World Cup campaign.
3:23:52 > 3:23:53If you're not over it yet, you should be,
3:23:53 > 3:23:56because the race for the League Leader's Shield
3:23:56 > 3:23:58and Grand Final trophy is under way.
3:23:58 > 3:24:00Super League is back.
3:24:00 > 3:24:03MUSIC: "It's Time" by Imagine Dragons
3:24:09 > 3:24:11# So this is what you meant
3:24:11 > 3:24:14# When you said that you were spent
3:24:14 > 3:24:17# And now it's time to build from the bottom of the pit
3:24:17 > 3:24:20# Right to the top
3:24:20 > 3:24:23# Don't hold back
3:24:23 > 3:24:29# Packing my bags and giving the academy a rain-check
3:24:29 > 3:24:34# I don't ever want to let you down
3:24:34 > 3:24:39# I don't ever want to leave this town
3:24:40 > 3:24:43# Cos after all
3:24:43 > 3:24:46# The city never sleeps tonight
3:24:46 > 3:24:48# It's time to begin, isn't it?
3:24:48 > 3:24:51# I get a little bit bigger
3:24:51 > 3:24:53# But then I'll admit
3:24:53 > 3:24:57# I'm just the same as I was
3:24:57 > 3:25:01# Now don't you understand
3:25:01 > 3:25:05# That I'm never changing who I am... #
3:25:09 > 3:25:10Joining us for week one,
3:25:10 > 3:25:13we have the Huddersfield Giants prop Eorl Crabtree
3:25:13 > 3:25:15and the Salford Red Devils coach Brian Noble.
3:25:15 > 3:25:19Eorl, how big a year is it for the sport to build on the World Cup?
3:25:19 > 3:25:21I think it's absolutely massive.
3:25:21 > 3:25:23I firmly believe, after the World Cup
3:25:23 > 3:25:26and the spectacular viewing figures that we had,
3:25:26 > 3:25:28we need to create this legacy.
3:25:28 > 3:25:30It's something that the Olympics talked about,
3:25:30 > 3:25:33and it wasn't possible because there was nothing after it,
3:25:33 > 3:25:35but we've got Super League XIX.
3:25:35 > 3:25:38What would you like to see from the sport this season?
3:25:38 > 3:25:40A bit of the fun from the World Cup.
3:25:40 > 3:25:42People really got stuck into each other on the field.
3:25:42 > 3:25:45Off the field, everybody enjoys each other's company
3:25:45 > 3:25:47and enjoyed the affair that was on show.
3:25:47 > 3:25:50I think we need to replicate that.
3:25:50 > 3:25:52We need to be less animalistic off the field
3:25:52 > 3:25:54and leave it to the players on the field and have some fun.
3:25:54 > 3:25:57- That's what we should celebrate. - Let's hope we do.
3:25:57 > 3:26:00Super League has new sponsors, a number of new players,
3:26:00 > 3:26:02and one team even has a new identity.
3:26:02 > 3:26:06Dave Woods has been to the home of the freshened-up Salford Red Devils
3:26:06 > 3:26:09to mark everyone's card for 2014.
3:26:15 > 3:26:19Welcome to hell, and things might be getting very uncomfortable for some.
3:26:19 > 3:26:21Relegation is back on the agenda,
3:26:21 > 3:26:25which means things at the bottom could be getting very tense.
3:26:27 > 3:26:29Across the board, the whole competition this year
3:26:29 > 3:26:31is going to be exciting.
3:26:31 > 3:26:33There's not going to be any falloff towards the back end,
3:26:33 > 3:26:35because everybody's fighting for success
3:26:35 > 3:26:36or to avoid the dreaded R.
3:26:36 > 3:26:39Two teams going down at the end of the year,
3:26:39 > 3:26:43which adds some spice to the comp, which is great.
3:26:43 > 3:26:46Everybody will be playing for something.
3:26:46 > 3:26:48With relegation, every game is important.
3:26:48 > 3:26:50It will be going right up to the last second of the last game.
3:26:50 > 3:26:53There'll be two teams that are there at the end of the season.
3:26:53 > 3:26:55That's the fact of it. Whether or not we'll be one of those,
3:26:55 > 3:26:57we're happy for people to be tipping us.
3:26:57 > 3:26:59We're confident in our own ability
3:26:59 > 3:27:02and what we can do this season.
3:27:02 > 3:27:06If you're in that situation, you're almost playing for your livelihood.
3:27:06 > 3:27:09So from a player's point of view, it is pretty daunting.
3:27:11 > 3:27:13The great unknowns at the start of this season
3:27:13 > 3:27:16are the newly-branded Salford Red Devils.
3:27:16 > 3:27:18A host of new players have walked through the door here.
3:27:18 > 3:27:21It's only half a dozen miles between this spot
3:27:21 > 3:27:23and the grand final venue,
3:27:23 > 3:27:25but are Salford good enough to make Old Trafford?
3:27:27 > 3:27:29I think with the players they've bought,
3:27:29 > 3:27:31Rangi Chase, Gareth Hock, and Adrian Morley,
3:27:31 > 3:27:35they'll be a team that are tough to beat from the start.
3:27:35 > 3:27:37If you've got those quality players,
3:27:37 > 3:27:41and not just the players, but the individuals that are there as well,
3:27:41 > 3:27:43I think it's a recipe for success.
3:27:43 > 3:27:46We realise we'll be under a lot of scrutiny
3:27:46 > 3:27:47and we'll be a handy scalp
3:27:47 > 3:27:50for a lot of the teams, but that's something we'll deal with.
3:27:50 > 3:27:52They've definitely got fantastic players.
3:27:52 > 3:27:55I'm sure they'll be a threat to everyone.
3:27:56 > 3:27:57On and off the field,
3:27:57 > 3:27:59Wigan and maybe the rest of Rugby League
3:27:59 > 3:28:03will miss the mercurial talents of the game's marquee star.
3:28:03 > 3:28:06Sam Tomkins has gone to the NRL.
3:28:06 > 3:28:08So who will be the new shining star of Super League?
3:28:08 > 3:28:12I hope whoever does step up plays for Wigan! That'd be great for us.
3:28:13 > 3:28:15I'm excited to play with Rangi Chase.
3:28:15 > 3:28:18Hopefully with a new club, it'll invigorate him slightly.
3:28:18 > 3:28:21So I'm expecting big things from Rangi.
3:28:21 > 3:28:23If you speak to Ben Westwood, it's him.
3:28:23 > 3:28:26He's just been telling me he's a captain and an extraordinary player.
3:28:26 > 3:28:28There's a lot of great players.
3:28:28 > 3:28:30Whilst James Roby's not really a new star,
3:28:30 > 3:28:34for the last four or five years that I've been here,
3:28:34 > 3:28:37he's consistently been the best player in the competition.
3:28:37 > 3:28:39I think the youth of our competition at the moment,
3:28:39 > 3:28:41they're really exciting.
3:28:41 > 3:28:43If you look across the whole teams,
3:28:43 > 3:28:46we've got some really exciting youngsters,
3:28:46 > 3:28:50and that's where the future's been in Super League for a number of years.
3:28:50 > 3:28:53In France, Morgan Escare, for me, has got that speed
3:28:53 > 3:28:58and that unpredictability about him, so it's Morgan Escare for me.
3:28:59 > 3:29:02So who are the favourites for 2014?
3:29:02 > 3:29:04Well, Warrington have lost the last two grand finals
3:29:04 > 3:29:07and a clutch of senior players ahead of this year,
3:29:07 > 3:29:08but they are still a threat.
3:29:08 > 3:29:11St Helens have regrouped behind a very large pack.
3:29:11 > 3:29:14Huddersfield are hoping to go one step further than last year.
3:29:14 > 3:29:19Leeds want their title back. It's Wigan's to lose. Salford, Hull?
3:29:19 > 3:29:21In truth, it could be wide open.
3:29:21 > 3:29:24Very exciting times.
3:29:24 > 3:29:27There seems to be a bit of a buzz around the place.
3:29:27 > 3:29:31We've got some new signings and a lot of young players
3:29:31 > 3:29:33that have got another year of experience under their belt,
3:29:33 > 3:29:36so everything seems to be going in the right direction.
3:29:36 > 3:29:39We're excited about the new season.
3:29:39 > 3:29:43We've done plenty of training, and it's now time to get out there
3:29:43 > 3:29:45and see where we're at.
3:29:45 > 3:29:47'The mood and the camaraderie off the field is definitely
3:29:47 > 3:29:50'as good as it's ever been. Really looking forward to'
3:29:50 > 3:29:52the new Super League season.
3:29:52 > 3:29:53In years that have gone by,
3:29:53 > 3:29:55consistency has been the main thing that has let us down.
3:29:55 > 3:29:58We've shown that we can beat the top teams when we're at our best.
3:29:58 > 3:30:01I think if we are consistent, we should have a decent year.
3:30:01 > 3:30:04We've got to put ourselves in the same position as we did previously,
3:30:04 > 3:30:08and we've got to be better. It's as simple as that.
3:30:08 > 3:30:12We have to get ourselves in positions to play in big games and win them.
3:30:12 > 3:30:14We know how hard it was to achieve what we did last year.
3:30:14 > 3:30:17We know it's probably going to be harder this year.
3:30:17 > 3:30:21But having won them trophies, it does give yourselves
3:30:21 > 3:30:23and the other lads that hunger to do well.
3:30:23 > 3:30:26Having got your hands on trophies and silverware,
3:30:26 > 3:30:28I think it really pushes you to do it again the following year.
3:30:34 > 3:30:36We'll get to London in a little while,
3:30:36 > 3:30:38but what do you think having relegation back
3:30:38 > 3:30:40will do to the competition?
3:30:40 > 3:30:42It definitely makes it more exciting.
3:30:42 > 3:30:45It's not just for the top of the league to worry about,
3:30:45 > 3:30:46it's the bottom as well.
3:30:46 > 3:30:50It's a bit scary for the guys who will be in that position,
3:30:50 > 3:30:53because getting to the end of the season,
3:30:53 > 3:30:55knowing that you have got to fight for everything
3:30:55 > 3:30:58and fight for your job, it's a very scary time for players.
3:30:58 > 3:31:02But also, for rugby league as a whole, I think it's a good idea.
3:31:02 > 3:31:05At the other end of the table, a huge amount of expectation on you.
3:31:05 > 3:31:09What's it like at Salford? What's the pressure like on your shoulders?
3:31:09 > 3:31:12We love the pressure, that extra scrutiny.
3:31:12 > 3:31:14We'd rather be under scrutiny than not.
3:31:14 > 3:31:17Coping with pressure is what every club has to do.
3:31:17 > 3:31:19Eorl has just mentioned about the relegation situation.
3:31:19 > 3:31:23Nobody will be away from pressure this year. It's how you respond.
3:31:23 > 3:31:25You've got to learn to enjoy it, in a sick way,
3:31:25 > 3:31:27and that's what will happen for most clubs.
3:31:27 > 3:31:30But the pressure at Salford is no greater than it's ever been,
3:31:30 > 3:31:32other than that we want to do well as well.
3:31:32 > 3:31:35Our expectations are high as well.
3:31:35 > 3:31:37Looking at Leeds, Tom Briscoe has come in.
3:31:37 > 3:31:40Where do you think he'll fit in?
3:31:40 > 3:31:42He's a tough one.
3:31:42 > 3:31:46He's a great player, someone you need to have on your team,
3:31:46 > 3:31:47because you go forward,
3:31:47 > 3:31:50and he's the most difficult person to put down in the world.
3:31:50 > 3:31:52Honestly, he's unbelievable at times.
3:31:52 > 3:31:54It's like trying to tackle tree trunks.
3:31:54 > 3:31:56He just marches forward,
3:31:56 > 3:32:00and that sort of player in your team can only do good things for you.
3:32:00 > 3:32:02He's a fantastic player,
3:32:02 > 3:32:05but it's the consistency and unity that they've already got
3:32:05 > 3:32:06which is so special.
3:32:06 > 3:32:08Warrington lost a huge amount of experience,
3:32:08 > 3:32:11but Tony Smith is excited about the young players
3:32:11 > 3:32:14- he's got coming through. - And so he should. Briers has gone,
3:32:14 > 3:32:17and he seems to have been a fixture in Super League forever.
3:32:17 > 3:32:21What will we do without Lee Briers? I mean that in the nicest way.
3:32:21 > 3:32:22But Roy Asotasi's come in,
3:32:22 > 3:32:26an experienced front row with a lot of NRL experience.
3:32:26 > 3:32:29They've still got a heck of a lot of talent, when you look at that squad.
3:32:29 > 3:32:33When you look at their DNA, and you asked Eorl the question earlier
3:32:33 > 3:32:36about who'll be at the top and who won't be, and Woodsy alluded to it.
3:32:36 > 3:32:38Only four teams have ever won this competition,
3:32:38 > 3:32:41so you've got to have been there and done that,
3:32:41 > 3:32:43now is it time for somebody else to break in?
3:32:43 > 3:32:46St Helens have recruited well. They've recruited big as well.
3:32:46 > 3:32:49Are you looking forward to coming up against their pack?
3:32:49 > 3:32:52I wouldn't say I'm looking forward to coming up against their pack.
3:32:52 > 3:32:54You against Mose Masoe is going to be one of the classics!
3:32:54 > 3:32:56Yeah, I think I'll be using a bit of footwork on him.
3:32:56 > 3:32:58He's an absolute monster.
3:32:58 > 3:33:00I saw him at the Rugby League launch as well.
3:33:00 > 3:33:04You get a gauge of how big they are on the St Helens side,
3:33:04 > 3:33:06and I know they'll be very tough to play against.
3:33:06 > 3:33:10But you've got to counteract that, but we're up for the challenge.
3:33:10 > 3:33:13We can't wait. It just makes it even more exciting,
3:33:13 > 3:33:14some big teams going toe to toe.
3:33:14 > 3:33:17Well, it looks like a wide-open competition this year,
3:33:17 > 3:33:19and we got our first idea
3:33:19 > 3:33:21of the form of two title contenders on Friday night.
3:33:21 > 3:33:23The defending champions Wigan
3:33:23 > 3:33:26were up against last year's league leaders, Huddersfield.
3:33:48 > 3:33:49# Party people say
3:33:49 > 3:33:52# Party people say, hey
3:33:52 > 3:33:55# It's a new day
3:33:55 > 3:33:57# It's a new day
3:33:58 > 3:34:02# The world is getting ready Everybody ready, yeah
3:34:02 > 3:34:06# For a new day, for a new day
3:34:06 > 3:34:10# Celebrate and say, hey, hey, hey
3:34:10 > 3:34:14# Hey, hey, hey, for a new day
3:34:14 > 3:34:17# For a new day
3:34:17 > 3:34:18# Celebrate and say... #
3:34:27 > 3:34:30New season, new challenges
3:34:30 > 3:34:32for a Wigan side that won the double last year.
3:34:32 > 3:34:34An early start for them,
3:34:34 > 3:34:39ahead of their trip down under to try to win the World Cup challenge.
3:34:39 > 3:34:43Huddersfield, happy to provide the opposition tonight.
3:34:43 > 3:34:45They silenced the doubters last year,
3:34:45 > 3:34:47winning the League Leader's Shield,
3:34:47 > 3:34:49and they have a happy recent record here.
3:34:50 > 3:34:55Debuts in the Wigan line-up include Matt Bowen at full-back,
3:34:55 > 3:34:56Dan Sarginson and Tony Clubb,
3:34:56 > 3:35:00and O'Loughlin a late withdrawal with a hamstring injury.
3:35:01 > 3:35:03Two new boys for Huddersfield, too,
3:35:03 > 3:35:06two men who've also come north from the Broncos,
3:35:06 > 3:35:07Antonio Kaufusi and Chris Bailey.
3:35:11 > 3:35:13Hold!
3:35:13 > 3:35:14Here's Lunt.
3:35:15 > 3:35:19Brough looking on the inside to try and find a bit of an opening there.
3:35:19 > 3:35:21Grix is here in support.
3:35:26 > 3:35:27Last tackle coming up. Lunt.
3:35:27 > 3:35:29This is Ferres. Good support there.
3:35:29 > 3:35:33Murphy is on the outside, a clever little kick, and Ferres...
3:35:35 > 3:35:37..will follow it up and score.
3:35:39 > 3:35:43We're going to get our first video referee decision of the season.
3:35:44 > 3:35:48Onside is very much the issue, and it looks there,
3:35:48 > 3:35:51when Murphy kicks the ball, that Ferres was onside.
3:35:53 > 3:35:55And a try has been given.
3:35:55 > 3:35:58Excellent all-round play here by Huddersfield,
3:35:58 > 3:36:00from Ferres through to Murphy,
3:36:00 > 3:36:04and a very clever kick, which Ferris did well to touch down.
3:36:07 > 3:36:08Terrific start by Huddersfield.
3:36:09 > 3:36:13They certainly look the more assured team so far tonight.
3:36:13 > 3:36:15Patrick with the thrust.
3:36:15 > 3:36:18Here's Lunt, from dummy half. He's going down that blind side.
3:36:18 > 3:36:21Keeps it alive. Lunt again. It's another kick to the corner,
3:36:21 > 3:36:24and this time, McGillvary gets there first!
3:36:26 > 3:36:33Inevitably, the question. It was very close to going dead onside.
3:36:33 > 3:36:36From the kick, it looks onside. And the touchdown looks good as well.
3:36:38 > 3:36:42Have a look from a better angle, just to make absolutely sure.
3:36:45 > 3:36:47Athleticism from McGillvary.
3:36:47 > 3:36:50The try, I'm sure, is going to be given here.
3:36:50 > 3:36:51It is confirmed.
3:36:51 > 3:36:54A second on the night for Huddersfield. They lead 8-0.
3:37:02 > 3:37:03Lunt.
3:37:03 > 3:37:07Crabtree running there, but it's back to Brough.
3:37:07 > 3:37:12Brough with a short pass and hard in by Larne Patrick.
3:37:12 > 3:37:14Brough picks up a dummy half.
3:37:14 > 3:37:18They look to get the numbers, and they have.
3:37:18 > 3:37:22The Wigan winger was sucked on the inside,
3:37:22 > 3:37:26which made it an easy score for Jermaine McGillvary.
3:37:26 > 3:37:29By the time the ball gets to him, he has all the time in the world.
3:37:35 > 3:37:37He's happy.
3:37:42 > 3:37:44Blasting down the middle again here.
3:37:44 > 3:37:46Wigan have had their hands full
3:37:46 > 3:37:48to try and contain these Huddersfield forwards,
3:37:48 > 3:37:52off the back of whom the halves have been doing so well.
3:37:52 > 3:37:55Here comes Wardle! Wardle has loads in support,
3:37:55 > 3:37:58but Danny Brough has knocked it on.
3:37:58 > 3:38:01What a chance that would have been to possibly put Huddersfield
3:38:01 > 3:38:03out of sight.
3:38:04 > 3:38:09Great line from Wardle. We saw that so often last year.
3:38:09 > 3:38:12Had Brough held on, he was a very possible scorer.
3:38:18 > 3:38:20Quick hands again here, Matty Smith goes out wide.
3:38:22 > 3:38:25Three tackles to have a go at this Huddersfield line for Wigan.
3:38:25 > 3:38:26Matty Bowen.
3:38:28 > 3:38:30Green.
3:38:31 > 3:38:33Sarginson with a pass. Thornley!
3:38:34 > 3:38:37Well, if this is a try, it is spectacular.
3:38:38 > 3:38:40It looks as though it was, as well.
3:38:42 > 3:38:44We've seen some really good efforts tonight.
3:38:44 > 3:38:47This is right up there with them.
3:38:47 > 3:38:50Iain Thornley is going to be given a try for this, surely.
3:38:50 > 3:38:51He grounds it.
3:38:51 > 3:38:54Not out of play. Decision time.
3:38:54 > 3:38:56Only one decision, try given.
3:38:56 > 3:39:00Wigan finally have their first score of the season.
3:39:03 > 3:39:07Sarginson making the space, and Thornley making the most of it.
3:39:11 > 3:39:14Suddenly, Wigan are sensing the possibility of getting back
3:39:14 > 3:39:15into this game here.
3:39:15 > 3:39:18Second best for such a long time.
3:39:18 > 3:39:20Here they come again. Oh...
3:39:20 > 3:39:23The tackle on Sarginson very important from McGillvary.
3:39:23 > 3:39:26The winger came in, he had to make that tackle.
3:39:27 > 3:39:29Green.
3:39:30 > 3:39:33A big, bludgeoning effort again from Tony Clubb.
3:39:35 > 3:39:38That's how close Wigan are, but they've only got one tackle left.
3:39:38 > 3:39:41Huddersfield hanging on gamely at the moment.
3:39:41 > 3:39:45Wigan looking wide, Bowen now, all the way to Burgess!
3:39:48 > 3:39:52There were two defenders on him, but he has found a way through.
3:39:56 > 3:39:59He's only a young lad, Joe Burgess,
3:39:59 > 3:40:02but he's a natural-born finisher.
3:40:02 > 3:40:04Watch out for plenty from him this season.
3:40:07 > 3:40:10Two back-to-back tries, and Wigan back in the game.
3:40:13 > 3:40:16It's Huddersfield who get it back.
3:40:16 > 3:40:19A terrific kick from Danny Brough.
3:40:19 > 3:40:21Well taken by Lawrence.
3:40:23 > 3:40:26Just when the Wigan flow
3:40:26 > 3:40:29seemed all the other way,
3:40:29 > 3:40:33Huddersfield have a chance to reassert their authority on the game.
3:40:36 > 3:40:41South stand in great voice, urging the Wigan defence on here,
3:40:41 > 3:40:44but Huddersfield with an opportunity.
3:40:46 > 3:40:48Lunt.
3:40:48 > 3:40:50Brough.
3:40:50 > 3:40:54Again, the dummy runners come. Again, it goes wide. And wider still.
3:40:56 > 3:40:59It's a hat-trick for Jermaine McGillvary.
3:41:01 > 3:41:05Great response from Huddersfield. Back in control.
3:41:06 > 3:41:07Or are they?
3:41:07 > 3:41:09- REFEREE: - Just want to check the grounding.
3:41:09 > 3:41:13Richard Silverwood, as you can hear, wants to check the grounding.
3:41:16 > 3:41:19A little bit of a bobble, but I'm sure that's OK.
3:41:20 > 3:41:23The video referees give the try, confirm the hat-trick.
3:41:25 > 3:41:27There'll be a bit of disappointment from Thornley
3:41:27 > 3:41:29that he didn't make the tackle.
3:41:32 > 3:41:34It's a cute little chip.
3:41:34 > 3:41:38I was going to say it was well taken by Thornley, but it was knocked on.
3:41:38 > 3:41:41It's picked up by Grix. It's the advantage play here, of course.
3:41:41 > 3:41:43Grix kicks it downfield.
3:41:43 > 3:41:45Well, he's been taken high here.
3:41:47 > 3:41:49Matty Bowen is the culprit.
3:41:50 > 3:41:53- Yes, he WAS taken high. REFEREE:- OK, it's a high tackle.
3:41:53 > 3:41:55I don't know whether it's direct contact to the chin,
3:41:55 > 3:41:58or off the chest into chin, it's definitely a high tackle.
3:41:58 > 3:41:59You're going on report.
3:42:01 > 3:42:03Matty Bowen has had an eye-catching debut,
3:42:03 > 3:42:05but that's one moment he hopes
3:42:05 > 3:42:08he hasn't caught the eye of the disciplinary panel.
3:42:10 > 3:42:12Brough again. He's found a space,
3:42:12 > 3:42:15he's got the legs on Jack Hughes.
3:42:15 > 3:42:17Looks on the inside. Here comes Grix.
3:42:17 > 3:42:19Grix to finish it.
3:42:19 > 3:42:21Grix has finished it!
3:42:21 > 3:42:25Not just the move, but probably the match.
3:42:25 > 3:42:29The try that surely, surely confirms victory for Huddersfield tonight.
3:42:29 > 3:42:33As so often, Danny Brough at the heart of the good things.
3:42:33 > 3:42:37Grix, the full-back, with a finish to win it for the Giants.
3:42:40 > 3:42:42Your season is up and running. I'm not sure we can pick it up,
3:42:42 > 3:42:45but you got a shiner for your troubles in that match.
3:42:45 > 3:42:47How was it for you?
3:42:47 > 3:42:51There were fireworks on the night, and I think one went off in my eye.
3:42:51 > 3:42:57It was a painful one. The way the game went, it was very physical.
3:42:57 > 3:43:00We've only had one friendly going into the game, it almost felt like
3:43:00 > 3:43:03going into another friendly because we'd only had one,
3:43:03 > 3:43:05then two weeks off. It makes no sense.
3:43:05 > 3:43:07I was a bit unhappy about that at first.
3:43:07 > 3:43:11But after the game at the weekend, I could do with this weekend off.
3:43:11 > 3:43:15Danny Brough, the reigning Man of Steel,
3:43:15 > 3:43:18he picked up where he left off. Fantastic for you guys again.
3:43:18 > 3:43:21Yeah, he was disappointed with himself as well, a couple of times.
3:43:21 > 3:43:23He did some unbelievable stuff, as always,
3:43:23 > 3:43:25but also, a couple of opportunities didn't go his way.
3:43:25 > 3:43:30He started off with a ridiculous offload. That's the way he plays.
3:43:30 > 3:43:32He just loves it.
3:43:32 > 3:43:36He's the difference at times. Five or six contributions
3:43:36 > 3:43:39we've highlighted here that we are going to see, they change games.
3:43:39 > 3:43:43That is what he does, the tough stuff and the black eyes are worthwhile
3:43:43 > 3:43:46when you have Danny Brough behind you.
3:43:46 > 3:43:49Short kick to get the ball back,
3:43:49 > 3:43:51pinpoint stuff. Talk about great halves,
3:43:51 > 3:43:53they do the simple things really well
3:43:53 > 3:43:55and they make the right decisions.
3:43:55 > 3:43:58This is what else he offers, he's a threat with the ball.
3:43:58 > 3:44:02Great support play from Grixy, but Danny Brough is a world-class player.
3:44:02 > 3:44:05Paul Anderson said that one of the pluses last season
3:44:05 > 3:44:08was that there were no big injuries.
3:44:08 > 3:44:11The downside to that game, poor Larne Patrick,
3:44:11 > 3:44:15a dislocated kneecap, out for 12 weeks. Quite a blow for you guys?
3:44:15 > 3:44:18We talk about teams staying fit, and the first game of the season,
3:44:18 > 3:44:20we have a player out for 12 weeks.
3:44:20 > 3:44:22Larne has been exceptional pre-season,
3:44:22 > 3:44:25he's had his opportunity, with Jason Chan not getting a shot early doors
3:44:25 > 3:44:27because of his own injury
3:44:27 > 3:44:30and now out for 12 weeks, I feel so sorry for him.
3:44:30 > 3:44:32But he'll bounce back.
3:44:32 > 3:44:36Possibly the turning point, as Wigan were surging back,
3:44:36 > 3:44:40a clever kick-off from Danny Brough, and a great try for Huddersfield.
3:44:40 > 3:44:41I'm not so sure it's clever,
3:44:41 > 3:44:44I think it's just short and they get the ball back.
3:44:44 > 3:44:48I'm not being disrespectful, but does the team know he's going to do that?
3:44:48 > 3:44:50He plays off the cuff.
3:44:50 > 3:44:52It's great that they chase the ball and get it back
3:44:52 > 3:44:54and get field position here.
3:44:54 > 3:44:58McGillvary, with his hat-tricks, he's finished some plays really well.
3:44:58 > 3:45:00What did you make of Wigan?
3:45:00 > 3:45:04A little bit indifferent, they were a bit slow coming out of the blocks.
3:45:04 > 3:45:08They started very hard, but they didn't seem to have
3:45:08 > 3:45:11that final quality for me.
3:45:11 > 3:45:14I'm sure they'll get better and I think this physical game,
3:45:14 > 3:45:17for them, is perfect preparation for Australia.
3:45:17 > 3:45:20Matty Bowen, an interesting challenge, but he's all right
3:45:20 > 3:45:23and he's going to be playing in the World Cup Challenge.
3:45:23 > 3:45:27- What did you make of his debut? - He looked very exciting.
3:45:27 > 3:45:30If you're going to lose a player of Sam Tomkins's quality,
3:45:30 > 3:45:33you've got to bring some quality in, and they've done that.
3:45:33 > 3:45:36I've seen him play over years in the NRL and he's been the difference.
3:45:36 > 3:45:41When the ground's hard, particularly, wow, watch out.
3:45:41 > 3:45:43His tackle technique needs to improve a little bit,
3:45:43 > 3:45:45as he's playing next week!
3:45:45 > 3:45:49- Can they win the World Club Challenge?- Of course.- Jolly good.
3:45:49 > 3:45:53There was only one new coaching appointment over the winter months.
3:45:53 > 3:45:58Hull FC have been making changes, Lee Radford replacing Peter Gentle.
3:45:58 > 3:46:00The Black and Whites have high hopes,
3:46:00 > 3:46:01after a nightmare end to 2013.
3:46:11 > 3:46:17Quick thinking by Hull, Briscoe is in! What a spectacular finish!
3:46:22 > 3:46:27COMMENTATOR: Lineham is away. 50 yards to go. Look at the chase.
3:46:27 > 3:46:33He's going to go the distance, with a sensational try!
3:46:41 > 3:46:45The Challenge Cup slithers from their fingers.
3:46:45 > 3:46:47It's surely going to be Wigan's day!
3:46:50 > 3:46:55This is annihilation here, Grix getting his second try.
3:46:55 > 3:46:58As a supporter, you'd have to be embarrassed now.
3:46:58 > 3:47:01It's the second time we've saved our worst performance for the big stage.
3:47:01 > 3:47:04It's not good enough. They were hot and we weren't at the races,
3:47:04 > 3:47:07and the scoreline reflected that.
3:47:07 > 3:47:08I can't defend that.
3:47:10 > 3:47:12'Breaking news on BBC Radio Humberside,
3:47:12 > 3:47:15'and Hull FC have sacked coach Peter Gentle.'
3:47:15 > 3:47:17Everybody thought he was the answer to all the questions,
3:47:17 > 3:47:22but he's never done it, so he had to go.
3:47:22 > 3:47:25Get somebody there who can put a good side together.
3:47:25 > 3:47:29They've got the ground, they've got the support, they must have the money, surely?
3:47:29 > 3:47:32Hull FC have confirmed Lee Radford
3:47:32 > 3:47:35as their new head coach this afternoon.
3:47:37 > 3:47:39I'm just a little bit cautious,
3:47:39 > 3:47:41from the point of view of his history as a coach.
3:47:41 > 3:47:44He has only coached East Hull Rugby.
3:47:44 > 3:47:46'At the end of the day,'
3:47:46 > 3:47:48you've got to have the experience.
3:47:54 > 3:47:57I wanted somebody who understood the importance of the game
3:47:57 > 3:48:00in this city and Lee does that, he commands respect.
3:48:00 > 3:48:03I didn't think there was enough discipline in the squad
3:48:03 > 3:48:07last year, with regard to training and particular standards.
3:48:07 > 3:48:09Lee brings that, he's a very organised individual,
3:48:09 > 3:48:11commands respect from everybody,
3:48:11 > 3:48:13gets involved from the grassroots to the very top.
3:48:13 > 3:48:16I've been very impressed with what he has done over the close season.
3:48:16 > 3:48:18I couldn't have asked him to settle in better.
3:48:18 > 3:48:20I'm enjoying it,
3:48:20 > 3:48:22the boys have been really receptive,
3:48:22 > 3:48:26the staff have been really good pre-season.
3:48:26 > 3:48:32In a fortnight, the roller-coaster of Super League begins,
3:48:32 > 3:48:34so at the moment, I've been enjoying it.
3:48:34 > 3:48:38The World Cup has given the game a great boost.
3:48:38 > 3:48:41The squad has a real chance, we've put a bit of pace and youth into it.
3:48:41 > 3:48:45We are trying to keep under the radar,
3:48:45 > 3:48:48but we expect to be challenging at the right end of the table.
3:48:48 > 3:48:52I think we've got a great squad for 2014.
3:48:52 > 3:48:55A lot of the players we have brought in are high-quality
3:48:55 > 3:48:58and I think they can only benefit the team.
3:48:58 > 3:49:00I'm sure we're going to have a good season.
3:49:00 > 3:49:03I'm really looking forward to this year, it's a new year,
3:49:03 > 3:49:08new faces in the coaching staff, new faces on the field.
3:49:08 > 3:49:11Obviously, for myself as well,
3:49:11 > 3:49:15I joined about Christmas time last year,
3:49:15 > 3:49:17then obviously getting injured in the first game,
3:49:17 > 3:49:20it feels like a new season for myself as well.
3:49:20 > 3:49:24It's one for everybody to look forward to and be excited about.
3:49:24 > 3:49:28This is a new beginning. A different team and coaching staff,
3:49:28 > 3:49:31so I'm really looking forward to it.
3:49:31 > 3:49:34We can ruffle a few feathers this season.
3:49:38 > 3:49:39You know Lee Radford well,
3:49:39 > 3:49:43he is the youngest coach in Super League, it's a big job, isn't it?
3:49:43 > 3:49:47It hasn't gone great yet! Yeah, of course it's a big job.
3:49:47 > 3:49:51They're a big club. Their expectations are very high,
3:49:51 > 3:49:54even though they want to go under the radar.
3:49:54 > 3:49:55There is 15/20,000 people
3:49:55 > 3:49:57saying, you're coming up on the radar.
3:49:57 > 3:50:03So, yeah, it's tough for him, but I think he will handle it.
3:50:03 > 3:50:05Your chairman is an interesting one,
3:50:05 > 3:50:08also talking about the discipline of players at training
3:50:08 > 3:50:12- and things like that.- We don't know
3:50:12 > 3:50:15what goes on at individual clubs.
3:50:15 > 3:50:17We know what goes on at our clubs.
3:50:17 > 3:50:20Lee does bring that element of discipline,
3:50:20 > 3:50:23he's played at the highest level.
3:50:23 > 3:50:27And he has coached with some great coaches.
3:50:27 > 3:50:30So I am sure he will stamp his own mark
3:50:30 > 3:50:33and make sure the players are where they have got to be.
3:50:33 > 3:50:35Looking across at Hull KR, a lot of changes,
3:50:35 > 3:50:39but the big miss will be Michael Dobson.
3:50:39 > 3:50:41Kris Keating is coming in, it's a big job, isn't it?
3:50:41 > 3:50:45Yeah, it's a massive position for him to fill in.
3:50:45 > 3:50:47But the team is pretty good,
3:50:47 > 3:50:50we played against them in the first friendly.
3:50:50 > 3:50:51It was very tough, very physical.
3:50:51 > 3:50:55They have a big forward pack and they're very mobile.
3:50:55 > 3:50:58They could cause a lot of upset throughout the season.
3:50:58 > 3:51:01They will definitely pick up some wins against the bigger teams.
3:51:01 > 3:51:06But it depends on how consistent they are. It will be interesting.
3:51:06 > 3:51:08Do they have the depth of squad?
3:51:08 > 3:51:12Because they were broken by the time they got to the play-offs.
3:51:12 > 3:51:15We said that before. Staying healthy is very important,
3:51:15 > 3:51:20so your medical staff and the physiotherapist play a huge part.
3:51:20 > 3:51:25But every team - and I can't reinforce this enough -
3:51:25 > 3:51:31if you underestimate any teams in this competition, you will get beaten.
3:51:31 > 3:51:33High hopes in Hull, but in the capital,
3:51:33 > 3:51:35they're just happy to be around.
3:51:35 > 3:51:37The London Broncos had no home
3:51:37 > 3:51:40and only ten players on the books in the middle of December.
3:51:40 > 3:51:44They were saved when a deal was agreed for them to play in Barnet this year.
3:51:44 > 3:51:47It has been an eventful few months.
3:51:47 > 3:51:53We were probably dead five times. With no pulse there. Then...
3:51:53 > 3:51:56We've got tough owners and we're a tough place,
3:51:56 > 3:51:59and people believe rugby league in London
3:51:59 > 3:52:02is more important than that, and they found a way to go again.
3:52:02 > 3:52:06I thought it was gone quite a few times.
3:52:06 > 3:52:10You don't believe it until it is signed and you are doing things.
3:52:10 > 3:52:14It was as harsh as that. We're still coming through that.
3:52:14 > 3:52:17It's been tough off-season,
3:52:17 > 3:52:20but the lads have come out the other side a lot stronger.
3:52:20 > 3:52:23We have a tight-knit group of boys now.
3:52:23 > 3:52:26Before Christmas, it was touch and go.
3:52:26 > 3:52:29The whole world knew about it, and the rugby league world,
3:52:29 > 3:52:33but the lads that were there, there was a good group of solid lads,
3:52:33 > 3:52:37training hard, week in, week out, in the build-up to Christmas.
3:52:37 > 3:52:39Once we got the good news as well,
3:52:39 > 3:52:42a bit more determination then to train even harder
3:52:42 > 3:52:45and get ready for the start of Super League.
3:52:45 > 3:52:50It must be so hard, you didn't even know whether you would have a club!
3:52:50 > 3:52:52Yes, that's probably the hardest part about it,
3:52:52 > 3:52:55not knowing what was going on. Sitting around and
3:52:55 > 3:52:58not being able to hear anything, or get told anything for a while.
3:52:58 > 3:53:00Then all of a sudden, to say we have been saved.
3:53:00 > 3:53:02It felt nice to have a club.
3:53:02 > 3:53:05We are really resilient.
3:53:05 > 3:53:10Tough times, tough people, but you lift your standards.
3:53:10 > 3:53:15It puts down in front of you how much you want something as a group.
3:53:15 > 3:53:18So we will be fighting hard for everything.
3:53:18 > 3:53:21We will be ready, each game we go into.
3:53:21 > 3:53:26We have got some real talent.
3:53:26 > 3:53:29We are shy on experience.
3:53:29 > 3:53:32So we will be careful on how we go about playing games
3:53:32 > 3:53:36and preparing our games. We will think our way through it.
3:53:36 > 3:53:41We'll think about what we have and how we get these guys into games,
3:53:41 > 3:53:43and get them ahead in contests.
3:53:43 > 3:53:46It has been a tough winter for him, hasn't it?
3:53:46 > 3:53:50I'm thrilled that London are up and running. I think we all are.
3:53:50 > 3:53:53Then the big question.
3:53:53 > 3:53:56They have had a short pre-season, what are they going to do?
3:53:56 > 3:54:00Then you throw in the relegation - it could be a tough year for them.
3:54:00 > 3:54:03But we are all thrilled that they are up and running.
3:54:03 > 3:54:07And they can create siege mentality.
3:54:07 > 3:54:10They will knock some teams off as well.
3:54:10 > 3:54:14It is the start of a new era - new home, new owners,
3:54:14 > 3:54:17does everybody hope it is a new start
3:54:17 > 3:54:20and not just a stay of execution?
3:54:20 > 3:54:24Yeah. If we look back at the years
3:54:24 > 3:54:29that London have been involved in this competition,
3:54:29 > 3:54:32we hope it won't be thrown out of the window.
3:54:32 > 3:54:36They have some great players that have come from London.
3:54:36 > 3:54:38We need to keep pushing.
3:54:38 > 3:54:39It is an opportunity now
3:54:39 > 3:54:42and I think the opportunity that these players have got
3:54:42 > 3:54:45as individuals to put themselves in the shop window...
3:54:45 > 3:54:47So you have to wish them all the best
3:54:47 > 3:54:50and hope they go on and have a good season.
3:54:50 > 3:54:53They are not the only ones who have had troubles.
3:54:53 > 3:54:55Talk that Bradford might have a new owner.
3:54:55 > 3:55:00It has been a choppy time at Bradford, hasn't it?
3:55:00 > 3:55:01Yes, I think I read somewhere
3:55:01 > 3:55:03they were taking a psychiatrist to help them -
3:55:03 > 3:55:06that is not disrespectful - to help them off the field,
3:55:06 > 3:55:07the uncertainty off the field,
3:55:07 > 3:55:10it does affect players.
3:55:10 > 3:55:16But you have to buckle down and get stuck into the season.
3:55:16 > 3:55:18If they get a bad start, Bradford,
3:55:18 > 3:55:20we bring this word 'relegation' back in.
3:55:20 > 3:55:24Normally, we're talking about the top, who's going to win this...
3:55:24 > 3:55:26We don't normally worry about what's at the bottom.
3:55:26 > 3:55:28The words we've been using on the show tonight are
3:55:28 > 3:55:30scrutiny, pressure, and consequences,
3:55:30 > 3:55:33and that's right throughout the league now because of that situation.
3:55:33 > 3:55:36And the other ones who've had a difficult time, Wakefield,
3:55:36 > 3:55:38had to sell players to balance the book.
3:55:38 > 3:55:40Lee Smith going today off to Rugby Union.
3:55:40 > 3:55:43Interestingly, Richard, he did this two years ago.
3:55:43 > 3:55:45He got a whole new squad together and built it,
3:55:45 > 3:55:47but he said he doesn't know how they're going to start.
3:55:47 > 3:55:49I don't envy teams that have to do this.
3:55:49 > 3:55:52We were very fortunate that we've only had a couple of players
3:55:52 > 3:55:55coming in. It doesn't really make too much difference
3:55:55 > 3:55:57to the whole of the side really.
3:55:57 > 3:56:00But the fact that you're bringing so many players makes it really
3:56:00 > 3:56:03difficult, and you never know about the combinations.
3:56:03 > 3:56:05It can take you a while to get up and running.
3:56:05 > 3:56:08If you have a few injuries, then your team is not
3:56:08 > 3:56:10quite as in-depth and it can be very hard work,
3:56:10 > 3:56:14but they'll be wanting to do as best as they can straightaway.
3:56:14 > 3:56:16And the other two teams that missed out on the eight,
3:56:16 > 3:56:19but were disappointed to miss out, Castleford and Widnes.
3:56:19 > 3:56:22- Do you think they can get themselves into that eight?- Most definitely.
3:56:22 > 3:56:24Nobody's spoken about them,
3:56:24 > 3:56:26so they've done it without that element of scrutiny.
3:56:26 > 3:56:30I think Castleford are a really good squad, with a lot of depth.
3:56:30 > 3:56:34I think Widnes have done the same, so they'll be looking to be a lot better off
3:56:34 > 3:56:36in the league ladder than they were last year.
3:56:36 > 3:56:38Well, as well as their Super League title,
3:56:38 > 3:56:41Wigan are defending the Tetley's Challenge Cup this season,
3:56:41 > 3:56:44and the leading amateur sides kicked off the tournament last week.
3:56:44 > 3:56:46The teams come from across the United Kingdom
3:56:46 > 3:56:49and no-one travelled further on the road to Wembley
3:56:49 > 3:56:52than the Scottish Champions, the Aberdeen Warriors.
3:56:56 > 3:57:00It means everything, the guys taking time off work to travel down here.
3:57:00 > 3:57:03Hopefully, we can do the job today. The boys seem quite well prepared,
3:57:03 > 3:57:06so we'll go out today and we'll do our best.
3:57:08 > 3:57:11It's a round trip of 700 miles from Aberdeen to St Helens,
3:57:11 > 3:57:14but for the Challenge Cup, it's worth it.
3:57:14 > 3:57:16The Warriors have come a long way in a short space of time,
3:57:16 > 3:57:18in more ways than one.
3:57:18 > 3:57:22Guys, let's start getting ready. We'll need to start going next door.
3:57:22 > 3:57:24'I started playing rugby league when I was in the British Army.'
3:57:24 > 3:57:25I came back out of the Army,
3:57:25 > 3:57:28moved back to Aberdeen, where there was no rugby league in place,
3:57:28 > 3:57:31and got involved with the Scotland students.
3:57:31 > 3:57:34From that, we've set up a pilot scheme, and from there,
3:57:34 > 3:57:36we built the team, we built the Warriors,
3:57:36 > 3:57:39and 2011 was when we first took it onto the field.
3:57:39 > 3:57:41Guys, we're not even three years old yet
3:57:41 > 3:57:43and we're in a Challenge Cup game.
3:57:43 > 3:57:44That's absolutely fantastic, boys.
3:57:44 > 3:57:46Think about what we're doing.
3:57:46 > 3:57:49So let's go out there today and enjoy it. You all ready?
3:57:49 > 3:57:51CHEERING
3:58:02 > 3:58:05Rugby league in Scotland is on a real high at the moment.
3:58:05 > 3:58:08Reaching the quarter-finals of the World Cup has really raised
3:58:08 > 3:58:10the sport's profile north of the border.
3:58:12 > 3:58:14At the time,
3:58:14 > 3:58:16we was on the back pages of national newspapers,
3:58:16 > 3:58:19and that's never happened from a rugby league point of view.
3:58:19 > 3:58:22We had some fantastic coverage. And little things like this as well,
3:58:22 > 3:58:24the team coming down here and playing in the Challenge Cup,
3:58:24 > 3:58:28and hopefully, the game will start to grow in Scotland.
3:58:28 > 3:58:29That's a line! That's a line!
3:58:29 > 3:58:33'I'd like to see a pro side in the championship before the next
3:58:33 > 3:58:35'World Cup, so I think that's a goal for Scotland rugby league.
3:58:35 > 3:58:38'It's certainly something that we're looking towards
3:58:38 > 3:58:40'and building towards that is definitely having
3:58:40 > 3:58:42'a championship side before the next World Cup in 2017.'
3:58:45 > 3:58:48The Warriors have ambitious plans, but their immediate task was to face
3:58:48 > 3:58:51one of amateur rugby league's most distinguished clubs,
3:58:51 > 3:58:54Pilkington Recs. The St Helens based side
3:58:54 > 3:58:56are coached by ex-Widnes player Kurt Haggerty.
3:58:56 > 3:58:59'It's a massive day. The clubs have never met before. I think Aberdeen'
3:58:59 > 3:59:02have only been going three years and we have a longstanding history,
3:59:02 > 3:59:05so we'll enjoy it and get stuck into each other.
3:59:05 > 3:59:07Think about what we need to do today.
3:59:07 > 3:59:09Target the right areas.
3:59:09 > 3:59:13Make sure passes are safe and they go into our teammates' hands.
3:59:13 > 3:59:14I think they're massive underdogs.
3:59:14 > 3:59:17Pilks, renowned rugby league, St Helens, some great players,
3:59:17 > 3:59:19some ex-pros playing,
3:59:19 > 3:59:22but just cos they're the favourites doesn't mean they're going to win.
3:59:22 > 3:59:25It would be nice to get some of that Braveheart spirit
3:59:25 > 3:59:27and Aberdeen get a good win today.
3:59:31 > 3:59:34Aberdeen certainly made their presence felt, but Pilkington's
3:59:34 > 3:59:37experience and quality proved to be too much for the Warriors.
3:59:40 > 3:59:44The hosts dominated from the start, running in six first-half tries
3:59:44 > 3:59:47that knocked the stuffing out of their visitors.
3:59:47 > 3:59:49- WHISTLE BLOWS - For both teams,
3:59:49 > 3:59:51it was their first competitive game of the season
3:59:51 > 3:59:54and the pace of the match eventually told on the Scots.
3:59:54 > 3:59:57Three minutes. Take a look around, look into each other's eyes.
0:00:00 > 0:00:00If you're not up for it, get off the field.