Episode 1

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0:00:35 > 0:00:37Hello.

0:00:37 > 0:00:4020 years ago the Spice Girls had their first number one single,

0:00:40 > 0:00:42football was coming home and rugby league became a summer sport.

0:00:42 > 0:00:45Super League comes of age this year with its 21st season and,

0:00:45 > 0:00:48if the last 12 months are anything to go by,

0:00:48 > 0:00:54it could be quite some party.

0:00:54 > 0:00:57Ryan Hall wins it for Leeds!

0:00:57 > 0:01:00They have only gone and done it again.

0:01:00 > 0:01:05They win it on the hooter!

0:01:05 > 0:01:10By the skin of their teeth, hang on to their Super League lives!

0:01:10 > 0:01:18That has set the Cherry and Whites alight.

0:01:18 > 0:01:22Leeds came to Hull and Leeds win the treble!

0:01:23 > 0:01:25And we are joined tonight by Kurt Gidley of Warrington

0:01:25 > 0:01:27and the Batley and Wales coach John Kear.

0:01:27 > 0:01:29Welcome to Super League, Kurt.

0:01:29 > 0:01:31What have you made of it so far?

0:01:31 > 0:01:31It's been great.

0:01:31 > 0:01:35It's been a really tough off-season.

0:01:35 > 0:01:37The trainer John Clarke, a great strength and conditioner,

0:01:37 > 0:01:39has pushed us really hard through the off-season,

0:01:39 > 0:01:41the players have responded great and I have been really

0:01:41 > 0:01:43enjoying my time over here.

0:01:43 > 0:01:45As a neutral, John, what are you particularly looking

0:01:45 > 0:01:46forward to in 2016?

0:01:46 > 0:01:49I am just looking forward to conundrums being answered.

0:01:49 > 0:01:51Such as, can Leeds handle it without Kevin Sinfield,

0:01:51 > 0:01:54Jamie Peacock, Kylie Leuluai?

0:01:54 > 0:01:56The Wigan youngsters being another 12 months older as well.

0:01:56 > 0:01:57More experience.

0:01:57 > 0:02:00Sam Tomkins returns.

0:02:00 > 0:02:03You can go through every club and there is a little question mark.

0:02:03 > 0:02:06So I'm just looking forward to all those questions being answered.

0:02:06 > 0:02:08You will have to be a patient man.

0:02:08 > 0:02:10Four months after completing the treble, Leeds were the first

0:02:10 > 0:02:13team back on the field on Thursday.

0:02:13 > 0:02:16Their opponents on the opening night were Kurt Gidley and the new-look

0:02:16 > 0:02:18Warrington Wolves.

0:02:20 > 0:02:21Shouting instructions here.

0:02:21 > 0:02:24Skipping off to that left-hand side.

0:02:24 > 0:02:27Leeds trying to create a little bit of an opportunity.

0:02:27 > 0:02:32Burrow stands and waits again.

0:02:32 > 0:02:33Again he goes left.

0:02:33 > 0:02:34McGuire pumps it out.

0:02:34 > 0:02:35To Sutcliffe!

0:02:35 > 0:02:36He has lost it.

0:02:36 > 0:02:38Lost it.

0:02:38 > 0:02:43In the act of scoring the try.

0:02:43 > 0:02:45The offload was terrific, as you would expect,

0:02:45 > 0:02:49but he could not keep hold.

0:02:49 > 0:02:51There is a problem here with Danny McGuire, just holding

0:02:51 > 0:02:54on to the knee, and he is clearly in a little bit of pain

0:02:54 > 0:02:58at the moment.

0:02:58 > 0:02:59Dwyer from dummy half.

0:02:59 > 0:03:04Sandow puts the foot down and Chris Sandow scampers over.

0:03:04 > 0:03:06It has taken some time.

0:03:06 > 0:03:0937 minutes before the game's first try.

0:03:09 > 0:03:18But Chris Sandow shows his electrifying pace here.

0:03:18 > 0:03:21Jordan Lilley taking his chances tonight in the absence of Danny

0:03:21 > 0:03:23McGuire.

0:03:23 > 0:03:25This is a big effort from Cuthbertson, who is held

0:03:25 > 0:03:26up just short.

0:03:26 > 0:03:32Sutcliffe wants it played quickly.

0:03:32 > 0:03:34Burrow, on again.

0:03:34 > 0:03:35And a big effort from Brad Singleton.

0:03:35 > 0:03:38Powering over, the Cumbrian.

0:03:38 > 0:03:40James Child is not quite sure.

0:03:40 > 0:03:43They are celebrating in the background.

0:03:43 > 0:03:48But hold that thought because they are having another look.

0:03:48 > 0:03:51Try given on the field.

0:03:51 > 0:03:54No evidence that he has not scored it so the try confirmed

0:03:54 > 0:03:55on the big screen.

0:03:55 > 0:04:00Brad Singleton, the scorer.

0:04:00 > 0:04:03Anxious moments at the start of the season for Danny McGuire.

0:04:03 > 0:04:07We are told he is not coming back on for the rest of this game.

0:04:07 > 0:04:08Cuthbertson.

0:04:08 > 0:04:12Ablett.

0:04:12 > 0:04:14Looking for a way through, not finding it.

0:04:14 > 0:04:15Lilley, down this blindside.

0:04:15 > 0:04:17Joel Moon.

0:04:17 > 0:04:21A sway and a swerve back in.

0:04:21 > 0:04:24He has left them with that glorious footwork.

0:04:24 > 0:04:27The off-load is superb, Lilley passes on and Ryan Hall rolls

0:04:27 > 0:04:31over the top of Tom Lineham.

0:04:31 > 0:04:34And Leeds have the lead.

0:04:34 > 0:04:40Lilley and Moon instrumental in this.

0:04:40 > 0:04:42Moon's footwork again, baffling and dazzling those

0:04:42 > 0:04:44Warrington defenders.

0:04:44 > 0:04:46They were chasing shadows.

0:04:46 > 0:04:50The off-load spectacular and the finish pretty good.

0:04:51 > 0:04:55Sandow.

0:04:55 > 0:04:59Over the top it goes and a chance for some pace to be shown by Matty

0:04:59 > 0:05:00Russell.

0:05:00 > 0:05:01Back now for Rhys Evans.

0:05:01 > 0:05:04It is good from Warrington but they are held up temporarily.

0:05:04 > 0:05:08Hughes from dummy half.

0:05:08 > 0:05:11It is an intelligent kick from Sandow.

0:05:11 > 0:05:14The width out wide and Kevin Penny with his pace was not

0:05:14 > 0:05:17going to miss from there.

0:05:17 > 0:05:21Really good Warrington try if it is given.

0:05:21 > 0:05:26Checking the onside.

0:05:26 > 0:05:28Sandow takes a step forward, just to make absolutely sure.

0:05:28 > 0:05:32You can see the white line.

0:05:32 > 0:05:35That's onside, that's a good finish.

0:05:35 > 0:05:37And Warrington are given the try.

0:05:37 > 0:05:43Kevin Penny.

0:05:44 > 0:05:45A big kick for Kurt Gidley.

0:05:45 > 0:05:4710-10 as it stands.

0:05:47 > 0:05:50If he puts this over, it might just be a winning lead

0:05:50 > 0:05:53for Warrington this late in the game.

0:05:53 > 0:05:58And over it goes.

0:05:58 > 0:06:01They edge ahead with ten minutes or so to go.

0:06:01 > 0:06:02Lilley.

0:06:02 > 0:06:03Sixth tackle coming up.

0:06:03 > 0:06:05That is a little chip and a chase.

0:06:05 > 0:06:07That is good by Lilley.

0:06:07 > 0:06:12Pushed off the ball by Ben Currie.

0:06:12 > 0:06:17He is claiming he was not obstructing.

0:06:17 > 0:06:21He clearly runs across Lilley's line.

0:06:21 > 0:06:24The ghost of Kevin Sinfield might be haunting Headingley at the moment.

0:06:24 > 0:06:27Zak Hardaker with a chance to get them all square.

0:06:27 > 0:06:29He's pulled it horribly wide.

0:06:29 > 0:06:35And Leeds miss an opportunity to claim a point.

0:06:35 > 0:06:38It is Warrington who will get the spoils.

0:06:38 > 0:06:39That is a real flapper.

0:06:39 > 0:06:43A real flapper.

0:06:43 > 0:06:46Kurt, how important for you guys to have got that win under your belt

0:06:46 > 0:06:49and in the manner you did it?

0:06:49 > 0:06:52Everyone wants to win their first comp game, that is for sure.

0:06:52 > 0:06:55We knew going to be a big test, they had a huge 2015 season,

0:06:55 > 0:06:59Leeds, so it was a great test for us to go up there.

0:06:59 > 0:07:01Them at home, a pretty hostile crowd, which is exciting for me

0:07:01 > 0:07:02to play in.

0:07:02 > 0:07:04Something new.

0:07:04 > 0:07:06I have never played in Leeds before.

0:07:06 > 0:07:09We had a great night.

0:07:09 > 0:07:12We done it a pretty tough way.

0:07:12 > 0:07:14We made plenty of tackles, worked really hard in defence

0:07:14 > 0:07:18but I think that the best way to win.

0:07:18 > 0:07:21When you work so hard defensively, and we made so many tackles,

0:07:21 > 0:07:24I think we made a lot more than them at half-time.

0:07:24 > 0:07:34You made 40 odd yourself.

0:07:35 > 0:07:38But we didn't complete great in the second half but to win

0:07:38 > 0:07:40the game under those circumstances was great.

0:07:40 > 0:07:42And the winning try, the Kevin Penny try,

0:07:42 > 0:07:44is that a feel of how the squad might involve attacking-wise

0:07:44 > 0:07:46as you go through the season?

0:07:46 > 0:07:48Chris scored a try himself and was heavily involved

0:07:48 > 0:07:49in the second try.

0:07:49 > 0:07:50A great kick and great vision.

0:07:50 > 0:07:53We want Chris playing off the top of his head.

0:07:53 > 0:07:57We want him playing confident.

0:07:57 > 0:08:00A whole pre-season under his belt with the team, he feels comfortable,

0:08:00 > 0:08:04he feels confident and that is what we want out of him.

0:08:04 > 0:08:07It is the kind of kicking we are used to seeing

0:08:07 > 0:08:11with Lee Briers in a Warrington shirt but also the unsung heroes,

0:08:11 > 0:08:13particularly Ben Currie worked his socks off

0:08:13 > 0:08:16in attack and defence.

0:08:16 > 0:08:19Ben Currie has been a highlight for me personally, coming

0:08:19 > 0:08:24to a new team.

0:08:24 > 0:08:27An outstanding attitude to training, tall and rangy, he should have been

0:08:27 > 0:08:30playing backrow on Thursday night.

0:08:30 > 0:08:33He got pushed to the centres because Ryan Atkins had to pull out

0:08:33 > 0:08:34with an elbow injury.

0:08:34 > 0:08:37He adjusted to that move fine.

0:08:37 > 0:08:41He has a great attitude, he is exceptionally fast for a guy

0:08:41 > 0:08:44that size and we see that there chasing Rob Burrow.

0:08:44 > 0:08:49He saved us the game.

0:08:49 > 0:08:52Those are big points in the game that Currie was involved in.

0:08:52 > 0:08:53A tremendous break, chased down Burrow.

0:08:53 > 0:08:56There we see him putting Kallum Watkins into touch but also,

0:08:56 > 0:08:59instrumentally, he provided the pass for Kevin Penny as well,

0:08:59 > 0:09:03on the end of Chris Sandow's kick.

0:09:03 > 0:09:07He had a great night and it is very exciting and England have got a lot

0:09:07 > 0:09:09of good back rowers playing Super League at the minute.

0:09:09 > 0:09:11What about Leeds?

0:09:11 > 0:09:13It is life after Peacock, Sinfield, we knew that,

0:09:13 > 0:09:16but to lose McGuire as well is a hefty blow.

0:09:16 > 0:09:18That is a massive blow for them.

0:09:18 > 0:09:21I think Danny McGuire was looking forward to takeing the general's

0:09:21 > 0:09:25role and stepping into Kevin Sinfield's boots and obviously

0:09:25 > 0:09:29that opportunity has been taken away for the next six weeks or so.

0:09:29 > 0:09:31Jordan Lilley though?

0:09:31 > 0:09:34I thought he really showed up very well.

0:09:34 > 0:09:37Although they played him at dummy half, I thought he showed

0:09:37 > 0:09:38up really well.

0:09:38 > 0:09:41And I know from his junior days he is an accomplished

0:09:41 > 0:09:42half-back as well.

0:09:42 > 0:09:45He will pose a problem or two to Brian McDermott

0:09:45 > 0:09:50with his selections in the coming weeks.

0:09:50 > 0:09:53The Hull FC owner Adam Pearson says this year's squad is the most

0:09:53 > 0:09:55expensive they have ever assembled at the KC Stadium.

0:09:55 > 0:09:57High expections for the new year.

0:09:57 > 0:09:59It all kicked off for the Black and Whites

0:09:59 > 0:10:01against Salford on Friday.

0:10:01 > 0:10:04Matt Newsome saw this one.

0:10:06 > 0:10:08Talanoa for Hull.

0:10:08 > 0:10:11Into contact.

0:10:11 > 0:10:14Houghton waits.

0:10:14 > 0:10:17He loves a broken line, Houghton, and he's scampered into space.

0:10:17 > 0:10:20He's got Pryce in support and he finds Leon Pryce

0:10:20 > 0:10:23and he will scoot to the line.

0:10:23 > 0:10:28A sparkling start for the Black and Whites.

0:10:28 > 0:10:29Lui.

0:10:29 > 0:10:31Kopczak.

0:10:31 > 0:10:32Across to this left-hand side.

0:10:32 > 0:10:35Salford on a roll here.

0:10:35 > 0:10:38Sa'u gives the ball away and there is Josh Griffin

0:10:38 > 0:10:43and Salford on the board.

0:10:43 > 0:10:45Pressure from Hull.

0:10:45 > 0:10:48Sneyd looks to go it alone.

0:10:48 > 0:10:49Scrappy stuff.

0:10:49 > 0:10:51Here is Houghton.

0:10:51 > 0:10:54Measures the kick.

0:10:54 > 0:10:56Fonua is on the far side!

0:10:56 > 0:11:01Fonua touches the ball down.

0:11:01 > 0:11:02Pryce.

0:11:02 > 0:11:10Good hands from Taylor and there is Jordan Thompson.

0:11:10 > 0:11:13It is all one-way traffic.

0:11:13 > 0:11:15Out of the back to Shaul.

0:11:15 > 0:11:16Down this left-hand side.

0:11:16 > 0:11:18Tuimavave has found Talanoa.

0:11:18 > 0:11:24That is another try for Hull.

0:11:24 > 0:11:26Houghton has been so influential.

0:11:26 > 0:11:30Sneyd away to Pryce, who gets it away to Pritchard.

0:11:30 > 0:11:33Tuimavave will go alone!

0:11:33 > 0:11:41And Hull are ripping Salford apart down this left-hand side.

0:11:41 > 0:11:45Can they pick up where they left off in that first half?

0:11:45 > 0:11:48Pryce close to the line, gets it away to Jack Logan.

0:11:48 > 0:11:53The momentum continues.

0:11:53 > 0:11:53Pritchard.

0:11:53 > 0:11:54What hands he's got.

0:11:54 > 0:11:56He flicks it away.

0:11:56 > 0:12:02And Jack Logan is in.

0:12:02 > 0:12:05Salford have no answer.

0:12:05 > 0:12:09Sneyd tries to go it alone.

0:12:09 > 0:12:11Picked up by Gareth O'Brien, who dummies the first man.

0:12:11 > 0:12:13The ball comes loose.

0:12:13 > 0:12:17Hull have snaffled it back and here is Jamie Shaul.

0:12:17 > 0:12:20Goes one way, then the other.

0:12:20 > 0:12:22And he has put a little kick through.

0:12:22 > 0:12:25Jamie Shaul!

0:12:25 > 0:12:29And Hull hit the 40 point mark.

0:12:29 > 0:12:32Tomkins.

0:12:32 > 0:12:33Dobson.

0:12:33 > 0:12:37Salford finally playing some football.

0:12:37 > 0:12:41Murdoch-Masile with a huge fend and here is Junior Sa'u and Salford

0:12:41 > 0:12:45restore a little bit of pride.

0:12:45 > 0:12:50Why have they left it so late to play here?

0:12:50 > 0:12:51Great pass from Dobson.

0:12:51 > 0:12:56Niall Evans in at the corner.

0:12:56 > 0:12:59Here is Dobson.

0:12:59 > 0:13:01A big switch to Murdoch-Masila and once again he's

0:13:01 > 0:13:04scampering into space.

0:13:04 > 0:13:08Sa'u on the shoulder and Salford will end this game with a flourish.

0:13:08 > 0:13:13Largely impressive from Hull but Salford show their fighting spirit.

0:13:15 > 0:13:18John, you know more than most the expectation at Hull FC.

0:13:18 > 0:13:20Do you think this squad can deliver this season?

0:13:20 > 0:13:22I do, yes.

0:13:22 > 0:13:25I think it has been assembled with success in mind and immediate

0:13:25 > 0:13:26success in mind.

0:13:26 > 0:13:29It is not looking two or three years down the line.

0:13:29 > 0:13:31They are looking at the here and now.

0:13:31 > 0:13:34The Black and White fans are very demanding.

0:13:34 > 0:13:38They pay their money so they expect the goods on the field.

0:13:38 > 0:13:40Adam Pearson has presented them with that and it is

0:13:40 > 0:13:43a really exciting time.

0:13:43 > 0:13:47Again it is down to Leon Pryce and Marc Sneyd.

0:13:47 > 0:13:50They have got to perform well at half-back in order

0:13:50 > 0:13:53to get your Frank Pritchards and company running wide out.

0:13:53 > 0:13:55What can we expect from Frank Pritchard?

0:13:55 > 0:13:56He is the headline signing for them.

0:13:56 > 0:14:00He is a handful.

0:14:00 > 0:14:03I have played against him for a fair chunk of my career.

0:14:03 > 0:14:04He is certainly a handful.

0:14:04 > 0:14:07When he has got his head on and he is keen to play,

0:14:07 > 0:14:11he is one of the most damaging players in the game.

0:14:11 > 0:14:13It is just where to tackle him.

0:14:13 > 0:14:16He can hold the ball in one hand, he has got offloads,

0:14:16 > 0:14:18so going low on him is not going to work.

0:14:18 > 0:14:22He can off-load pretty easily.

0:14:22 > 0:14:26I tried to go high on him a few times and that does not work either.

0:14:26 > 0:14:29It is about getting numbers around Frank at the same time and trying

0:14:29 > 0:14:31to wrap the ball up.

0:14:31 > 0:14:33Which is great because that draws players away so he could

0:14:33 > 0:14:35be really damaging.

0:14:35 > 0:14:38He can play away from the line then as well.

0:14:38 > 0:14:40He has got pre-line play as well.

0:14:40 > 0:14:42Yes, he will certainly be a headline grabber.

0:14:42 > 0:14:44No doubt about that.

0:14:44 > 0:14:46What about Salford?

0:14:46 > 0:14:47What do you expect from them this season?

0:14:47 > 0:14:50I expected gradual improvement.

0:14:50 > 0:14:54Tim Sheens has had a full off-season with Ian Watson,

0:14:54 > 0:14:56working with Salford and although some of the headline

0:14:56 > 0:14:59grabbers are not there any more, I think you will see a more solid

0:14:59 > 0:15:03unit as the weeks progress.

0:15:03 > 0:15:05Hull FC off to a flyer but what of their neighbours

0:15:05 > 0:15:06Hull KR?

0:15:06 > 0:15:09They had the worst of the weather on Sunday when their opponents were

0:15:09 > 0:15:11Castleford.

0:15:14 > 0:15:16It is Castleford Tigers over on that far side.

0:15:16 > 0:15:19Solomona still going!

0:15:19 > 0:15:21My word!

0:15:21 > 0:15:23Solomona - it's the first time we have mentioned him

0:15:23 > 0:15:25and Hull Kingston Rovers will want to keep him quiet

0:15:25 > 0:15:28for the rest of the game.

0:15:31 > 0:15:3325 minutes played and despite the bitterly cold conditions

0:15:33 > 0:15:38in Hull, on the field things really start to heat up.

0:15:38 > 0:15:39As tempers flared, Jewitt, on his 150th appearance

0:15:39 > 0:15:42for the club, got in a tussle off the ball.

0:15:42 > 0:15:43Richard Silverwood stepped in.

0:15:43 > 0:15:46Both players were sent to the sin-bin to make the most

0:15:46 > 0:15:50of the chilly afternoon and cool off.

0:15:50 > 0:15:54Just two minutes later, Castleford's struggles

0:15:54 > 0:15:57were compounded when a strong tackle on Michael Shenton left the Tigers

0:15:57 > 0:15:58captain in real discomfort.

0:15:58 > 0:16:01A nasty knee injury saw Shenton ushered off and could be a costly

0:16:01 > 0:16:06loss over the coming weeks.

0:16:08 > 0:16:10Boudebza gets the ball and Donaldson scores for Hull Kingston Rovers

0:16:10 > 0:16:16to the side of the post.

0:16:16 > 0:16:18The match was all square going into the second half

0:16:18 > 0:16:21and the wet and wild weather continued to play its part

0:16:21 > 0:16:22in the match.

0:16:22 > 0:16:25A kick upfield from Gale slipped through the hands of Cockayne

0:16:25 > 0:16:29and left the Tigers in prime position to pounce.

0:16:29 > 0:16:31Gale has the ball on the ten metre line.

0:16:31 > 0:16:33Webster comes in, he will cut a swathe through and Webster

0:16:33 > 0:16:38will score against his old side!

0:16:39 > 0:16:40Can Rovers conjure something up?

0:16:40 > 0:16:43We shall see.

0:16:43 > 0:16:45On the ball.

0:16:45 > 0:16:47Cockayne gets it to Mantellato and he goes in the corner.

0:16:47 > 0:16:53Rovers do fight back.

0:16:53 > 0:16:54Here is Milner.

0:16:54 > 0:16:57Milner passes it to Gale.

0:16:57 > 0:17:01A crossfield kick to Solomona and, well, he pops it up for Webster

0:17:01 > 0:17:06and that was just very poor defending.

0:17:06 > 0:17:08Mulhern is in at dummy half.

0:17:08 > 0:17:10He plays the pass to Blair.

0:17:10 > 0:17:11Blair to Cockayne.

0:17:11 > 0:17:14Out to Mantellato!

0:17:14 > 0:17:16Mantellato in the corner!

0:17:16 > 0:17:21Josh Mantellato is in.

0:17:21 > 0:17:23With seconds remaining, Mantellato was left with a tricky

0:17:23 > 0:17:27conversion from the same position he missed earlier to tie the game.

0:17:27 > 0:17:29It is away.

0:17:29 > 0:17:34Mantellato likes it and it is over.

0:17:34 > 0:17:38It is through and, on the death, after the hooter, Mantellato kicks

0:17:38 > 0:17:45the two points that means Hull Kingston Rovers draw this game.

0:17:45 > 0:17:49Really proud of the resilience of the boys, the toughness,

0:17:49 > 0:17:59and from one to 17, the effort was first class.

0:17:59 > 0:18:02We have not lost the game but it feels like it a little bit,

0:18:02 > 0:18:04but I am really pleased for Chris.

0:18:04 > 0:18:07He deserves the opportunity to crack on and keep doing his job

0:18:07 > 0:18:10without a fair bit of stick on his back.

0:18:11 > 0:18:13Kurt, you have got Hull KR next.

0:18:13 > 0:18:15They will go there really buoyed by that.

0:18:15 > 0:18:17That will feel like a win.

0:18:17 > 0:18:18For sure.

0:18:18 > 0:18:22A tricky one that one.

0:18:22 > 0:18:26I played with Josh in Newcastle and we always knew he was a great

0:18:26 > 0:18:28goalkicker so it probably does feel like a loss for Castleford.

0:18:28 > 0:18:30Another big, tough game for us.

0:18:30 > 0:18:37Our first home game so certainly one we want to win for our fans.

0:18:37 > 0:18:39They have been battered a bit in pre-season,

0:18:39 > 0:18:41in the pre-warm up games, Hull KR.

0:18:41 > 0:18:43That is a really big statement.

0:18:43 > 0:18:45It is a big statement and it is one they needed.

0:18:45 > 0:18:49It was a great riposte from the playing squad as a whole.

0:18:49 > 0:18:51They lost heavily to Hull FC and that didn't sit well

0:18:51 > 0:18:53with the Red and White fans.

0:18:53 > 0:18:59That is a great way to come back.

0:18:59 > 0:19:01Daryl Powell absolutely devastated there because they were never behind

0:19:01 > 0:19:04the whole game, but Hull Kingston Rovers would not go away

0:19:04 > 0:19:06and they found a way to draw and good on them.

0:19:06 > 0:19:09They lost Michael Shenton as well, it looked like a nasty injury.

0:19:09 > 0:19:12How big a blow to lose your captain?

0:19:12 > 0:19:14It is a big blow.

0:19:14 > 0:19:17He was exeptional last year and since returning to Castleford

0:19:17 > 0:19:19he has shown international class form.

0:19:19 > 0:19:22It is a big blow but they have got youngsters to come in.

0:19:22 > 0:19:25They may well get an opportunity now and they may well unearth

0:19:25 > 0:19:31a new star.

0:19:31 > 0:19:33Don't forget, you can follow rugby league with us right

0:19:33 > 0:19:36throughout the week.

0:19:36 > 0:19:40Alongside the comprehensive coverage on your BBC local radio station,

0:19:40 > 0:19:42there is commentary of Salford against St Helens

0:19:42 > 0:19:46on Five Live Sports Extra on Thursday.

0:19:46 > 0:19:49The Super League Show will have highlights of all the Round 2

0:19:49 > 0:19:53fixtures next Monday night at 11:45pm on BBC One.

0:19:53 > 0:19:57Or join us on Tuesday lunchtime on BBC Two and we will have coverage

0:19:57 > 0:19:59of the World Club Series, including Leeds against North Queensland

0:19:59 > 0:20:05on BBC One after Match of the Day on Sunday February the 21st.

0:20:05 > 0:20:082015 was an up and down year for the Leeds Rhinos fullback Zak

0:20:08 > 0:20:10Hardaker.

0:20:10 > 0:20:13He was dropped from the team at the start of the year whilst

0:20:13 > 0:20:15the subject of a police investigation but ended up a treble

0:20:15 > 0:20:18winner and the Super League Man of Steel.

0:20:33 > 0:20:37How much of a chance have you had to reflect on what you and the team

0:20:37 > 0:20:38achieved last year?

0:20:38 > 0:20:41I have not really thought of it much, to be fair.

0:20:41 > 0:20:44I got to spend time with my family over Christmas and New Year

0:20:44 > 0:20:47which was brilliant and before you know it you are straight back

0:20:47 > 0:20:50in, a new year, and everyone is talking about what we are going

0:20:50 > 0:20:51to do this year.

0:20:51 > 0:20:54I've had a little bit of time to reflect but not as much people

0:20:54 > 0:20:55would have thought.

0:20:55 > 0:20:58From your personal point of view, a tough year at the beginning.

0:20:58 > 0:21:01What changed for you over the course of the year?

0:21:01 > 0:21:02Sacrifices.

0:21:02 > 0:21:04That was the main issue.

0:21:04 > 0:21:07Wanting to be a professional rugby player but wanting to go out

0:21:07 > 0:21:10with my friends at the same time.

0:21:10 > 0:21:12It is one of those things where you try and juggle it

0:21:12 > 0:21:16and it is a difficult thing to do but after what happened last year,

0:21:16 > 0:21:19I sat down with my friends and had a serious talk and said,

0:21:19 > 0:21:22I can't do half the stuff I have been doing because it is going down

0:21:22 > 0:21:24the wrong path for me.

0:21:24 > 0:21:27It is a bad thing to say but I did not want a 9am-5pm job

0:21:27 > 0:21:29and I did not want to work with you.

0:21:29 > 0:21:32My friends, I don't want to work with you in a factory.

0:21:32 > 0:21:35It was one of those things and they were fully behind me

0:21:35 > 0:21:36and committed to it.

0:21:36 > 0:21:37All my family really helped me.

0:21:37 > 0:21:40I have definitely grown up in every aspect.

0:21:40 > 0:21:44It is great having a medal and a ring and stuff like that

0:21:44 > 0:21:46and the award of the treble but, on a personal level,

0:21:46 > 0:21:50for what I have achieved myself and where I am now compared to last

0:21:50 > 0:21:52year is terrific and I am pretty happy about that.

0:21:52 > 0:21:55At the height of it all, in the disciplinary process,

0:21:55 > 0:21:59did you think this could be it, I might lose my career?

0:21:59 > 0:22:02Definitely, there was a point where in tears at home,

0:22:02 > 0:22:03thinking what could be.

0:22:03 > 0:22:06Thankfully, I have come out the other side a lot better

0:22:06 > 0:22:10than when I went in.

0:22:10 > 0:22:13I think now, 24 years old, I do know what is good for me

0:22:13 > 0:22:17and bad for me and it has probably taken me a few years of doing that,

0:22:17 > 0:22:22but the only way is up now.

0:22:31 > 0:22:35For a couple of seasons there has been a debate about who is the best

0:22:35 > 0:22:36fullback, you or Sam Tomkins.

0:22:36 > 0:22:39When he comes back from injury, you can be compared against each

0:22:39 > 0:22:41other, is that something you are looking forward to?

0:22:41 > 0:22:42I can't wait.

0:22:42 > 0:22:43I love the rivalry.

0:22:43 > 0:22:45I love the challenges.

0:22:45 > 0:22:55We spur each other on.

0:22:57 > 0:23:01If he plays ten out of ten games I have to play 11 or 12.

0:23:01 > 0:23:04I got Man of Steel last year and was over the moon and could not

0:23:04 > 0:23:07believe it, but this year, I will do better than last year.

0:23:07 > 0:23:08That's my goal.

0:23:08 > 0:23:10That is what I set out to do.

0:23:10 > 0:23:14I'm not sure what the team will do because I can't speak for the others

0:23:14 > 0:23:17but on a personal level I will go out to do better than last year,

0:23:17 > 0:23:21so that is my personal goal and if Sam does better so be it,

0:23:21 > 0:23:23but I will make sure I give my best.

0:23:23 > 0:23:252015 turned out to be an incredible year for Zak Hardaker,

0:23:25 > 0:23:29what have you made of him?

0:23:29 > 0:23:32I am starting to learn, all the Super League players,

0:23:32 > 0:23:36how they work and work well in their teams.

0:23:36 > 0:23:39He reminded me of Josh Dugan back in Australia, the tall

0:23:39 > 0:23:40rangy back-rower.

0:23:40 > 0:23:43A handful to tackle.

0:23:43 > 0:23:46Their back three were really strong the other night and will be

0:23:46 > 0:23:49the whole year.

0:23:49 > 0:23:54The tall ranginess, good on his feet, he is really talented.

0:23:54 > 0:23:59Can you see him developing into a leader, particularly

0:23:59 > 0:24:02now with McGuire, he can take on a leadership role?

0:24:02 > 0:24:04He will need to do, it is a different group dynamic

0:24:04 > 0:24:08at Leeds and people such as Zak have to step up to the plate.

0:24:08 > 0:24:09I am certain he will.

0:24:09 > 0:24:12It has been an interesting journey, he started at Featherstone

0:24:12 > 0:24:15in the Championship, spotted by Leeds and brought

0:24:15 > 0:24:25into the Leeds culture, which is very disciplined,

0:24:25 > 0:24:28from Gary Hetherington at the top all the way

0:24:28 > 0:24:29through to the junior players.

0:24:29 > 0:24:32I think he knows it has to be a lifestyle choice.

0:24:32 > 0:24:34If he wants to be a full-time, elite professional athlete you have

0:24:34 > 0:24:37to make lifestyle choices that allow you to do that.

0:24:37 > 0:24:39We heard him talking about the rivalry between him

0:24:39 > 0:24:40and Sam Tomkins.

0:24:40 > 0:24:41He can't wait.

0:24:41 > 0:24:44The decision for who will play at fullback for England,

0:24:44 > 0:24:46will now be Wayne Bennett's, as the new England coach.

0:24:46 > 0:24:48What did you as an Aussie make of him being appointed

0:24:48 > 0:24:49England coach?

0:24:49 > 0:24:50It is a good move.

0:24:50 > 0:24:53In Australia we have plenty of coaches from different countries.

0:24:53 > 0:24:56It is about getting the best coach available at the time

0:24:56 > 0:24:58and who is going to get the best out of the players.

0:24:58 > 0:25:01Wayne will get the best out of the English players.

0:25:01 > 0:25:03They will probably be in awe of Wayne.

0:25:03 > 0:25:06He carries an aura about him and seems to say the right things

0:25:06 > 0:25:09at the right time in the least amount of words.

0:25:09 > 0:25:17It sticks in your mind and motivates you.

0:25:17 > 0:25:20What was it like for you at Newcastle when he came into coach?

0:25:20 > 0:25:22Was there an aura about him, what was so different about?

0:25:22 > 0:25:23Yes.

0:25:23 > 0:25:25There is certainly an aura about him.

0:25:25 > 0:25:28I don't think Wayne wants to portray that but some guys are nervous

0:25:28 > 0:25:30around him, shy, whatever it might be.

0:25:30 > 0:25:31He wants everyone to be comfortable.

0:25:31 > 0:25:35He wants everyone to do their best.

0:25:35 > 0:25:42He showed that during 2008, when he was assistant coach

0:25:42 > 0:25:48for the Kiwi team who went on to win the World Cup.

0:25:48 > 0:25:50They had a great coach in Stephen Kearney that year.

0:25:50 > 0:25:54I am sure Wayne had a huge influence on a lot of the Kiwi guys

0:25:54 > 0:25:55in the team.

0:25:55 > 0:25:57How do you see it working?

0:25:57 > 0:25:58He has a full-time job down under.

0:25:58 > 0:26:00He would not know all the English players.

0:26:00 > 0:26:02How would you like to see it set up?

0:26:02 > 0:26:06I think they will use some of the elite English coaches to work

0:26:06 > 0:26:08alongside Wayne and be his eyes and ears of the Super League.

0:26:08 > 0:26:11I am certain a Daryl Powell, Brian McDermott, Shaun Wane,

0:26:11 > 0:26:13Paul Anderson, they will be considered to work alongside him

0:26:13 > 0:26:15because he is the best coach of his era.

0:26:15 > 0:26:17There is no doubt about that.

0:26:17 > 0:26:20You don't last as long and win what he has won without being gifted

0:26:20 > 0:26:22and when he says something, you listen, so he is

0:26:22 > 0:26:23halfway there straightaway.

0:26:23 > 0:26:26It is a great opportunity to develop the successor to Wayne Bennett

0:26:26 > 0:26:29after 2017 and a great opportunity for Wayne Bennett to put

0:26:29 > 0:26:35the finishing touches to what Steve McNamara started

0:26:35 > 0:26:37and bring home either the Four Nations or World Cup

0:26:37 > 0:26:38in the next two years.

0:26:38 > 0:26:40Or both, that would be nice, wouldn't it?

0:26:40 > 0:26:41It would.

0:26:41 > 0:26:44Sam Tomkins was amongst the somewhat drenched crowd at Wigan

0:26:44 > 0:26:45on Friday night.

0:26:45 > 0:26:46They were up against the Catalan Dragons,

0:26:46 > 0:26:49when the French team were celebrating their 10th

0:26:49 > 0:26:52birthday.

0:26:57 > 0:26:58COMMENTATOR: Gets the ball away.

0:26:58 > 0:26:59Terrific hands.

0:26:59 > 0:27:04What a try.

0:27:04 > 0:27:09It is an explosive start to the life of the Catalan Dragons.

0:27:18 > 0:27:19Oh, my word!

0:27:19 > 0:27:25Unbelievable.

0:27:38 > 0:27:42A bigger slog tonight in the mud at Wigan than it was at the first

0:27:42 > 0:27:43meeting between these two in Perpignan.

0:27:43 > 0:27:47A high kick by Smith.

0:27:47 > 0:27:52Who only gets fingertips to it.

0:27:52 > 0:27:54It bounced off the shoulder and gone to ground.

0:27:54 > 0:28:00Michael McIlorum has picked up and scores.

0:28:00 > 0:28:0215 minutes played.

0:28:04 > 0:28:13The referee is asking the question.

0:28:13 > 0:28:15Seems to have lost it clean.

0:28:15 > 0:28:19Never quite regathers.

0:28:19 > 0:28:21McIlorum is sharp enough to see the loose ball.

0:28:21 > 0:28:24A clean pick-up by him.

0:28:24 > 0:28:29This is surely going to be confirmation of the opening score.

0:28:29 > 0:28:31Michael McIlorum's first of the season and Wigan

0:28:31 > 0:28:35up and running.

0:28:35 > 0:28:40McIlorum.

0:28:40 > 0:28:42Usual physical presence right down the middle.

0:28:42 > 0:28:44McIlorum from dummy half again.

0:28:44 > 0:28:46Squeezing it back.

0:28:46 > 0:28:53Williams with the step.

0:28:53 > 0:28:55Looks as though Stewart was trying to take him down.

0:28:55 > 0:28:56Back to McIlorum.

0:28:56 > 0:29:00He is claiming a second.

0:29:00 > 0:29:03Referee is asking another question.

0:29:03 > 0:29:07If it is a double movement I am going to come back and give

0:29:07 > 0:29:15Wigan a penalty.

0:29:15 > 0:29:17Attempted trip is what they are looking for.

0:29:17 > 0:29:18Stewart.

0:29:18 > 0:29:21If it is a try, they will not bother going back to that,

0:29:21 > 0:29:23but it is a question about the double movement.

0:29:23 > 0:29:25It appears McIlorum kept his arm off the floor.

0:29:25 > 0:29:28He has.

0:29:28 > 0:29:33Second try for McIlorum in the space of three minutes.

0:29:42 > 0:29:44The rain still absolutely hammering down, the pitch

0:29:44 > 0:29:47is a quagmire.

0:29:47 > 0:29:48A slog in heavy weather.

0:29:48 > 0:29:49A grubber kick.

0:29:49 > 0:29:54Just about gets it away.

0:29:54 > 0:29:56Hang on a minute, because the Catalan players are asking

0:29:56 > 0:30:04for a review of this.

0:30:04 > 0:30:06The referee says no try, but Justin Horo is claiming it.

0:30:06 > 0:30:07And with good reason.

0:30:07 > 0:30:12Justin Horo has a hand on that.

0:30:12 > 0:30:15Tierney has failed to clear and early in the second half Catalan

0:30:15 > 0:30:17have a try back.

0:30:17 > 0:30:20Wigan fans lifting the noise.

0:30:20 > 0:30:24Sensing an opportunity for their side.

0:30:24 > 0:30:30Bateman driving it in.

0:30:30 > 0:30:32Waiting at dummy half but it is a penalty.

0:30:32 > 0:30:38Mounis hanging on too long.

0:30:39 > 0:30:41A real wrestle going on here.

0:30:41 > 0:30:44A wrestle that went on a couple of seconds longer than it

0:30:44 > 0:30:45should have done.

0:30:45 > 0:30:48Matty Smith puts the kick between the sticks and Wigan

0:30:48 > 0:30:52extend their lead, 12-6.

0:30:54 > 0:30:58Powell, sharply away, Wigan probing left.

0:30:58 > 0:31:02Farrell, Sarginson, the ball has gone to ground.

0:31:02 > 0:31:06And somehow finding a way through.

0:31:06 > 0:31:08That took some scoring.

0:31:08 > 0:31:14There is a conversation going on here.

0:31:14 > 0:31:15Saying it was definitely a knock-on.

0:31:15 > 0:31:25The referee wants to see video confirmation.

0:31:25 > 0:31:27Did it come out backwards or was that forwards?

0:31:27 > 0:31:29That is what they are judging on.

0:31:29 > 0:31:30No problems with the finish.

0:31:30 > 0:31:34It is about how it started.

0:31:34 > 0:31:39Shaun Wane is rueful but Wigan still in command.

0:31:43 > 0:31:46Quite interesting hearing them say they have trained in 20 degrees.

0:31:46 > 0:31:48They had to water their pitch back home.

0:31:48 > 0:31:51I suppose the errors we saw in the first half were not

0:31:51 > 0:31:53a surprise from Catalan.

0:31:53 > 0:31:56Yes, from a coaching point of view, this time of the year

0:31:56 > 0:31:58you want to complete and kick and kick chase.

0:31:58 > 0:32:02It seems like a simple game.

0:32:02 > 0:32:08Training, the conditions make a difference.

0:32:08 > 0:32:13Training on this side, I guess compared to Catalans.

0:32:13 > 0:32:15You get used to those conditions, training outdoors

0:32:15 > 0:32:16and during the week.

0:32:16 > 0:32:18It must've been like playing on ice rink at times.

0:32:18 > 0:32:19It doesn't look great.

0:32:19 > 0:32:21It is about completing sets.

0:32:21 > 0:32:31A simple game plan.

0:32:31 > 0:32:34If the other team is giving the ball away and you are completing...

0:32:34 > 0:32:35I think...

0:32:35 > 0:32:36We speak about Catalans.

0:32:36 > 0:32:39We have always said Catalans, should they learn to win in England,

0:32:39 > 0:32:41consistently, they will be a threat to anybody.

0:32:41 > 0:32:43They know how to win in the south of France.

0:32:43 > 0:32:46That is one of the challenges they have to face.

0:32:46 > 0:32:49We can look at the weather report and it should not have been a major

0:32:49 > 0:32:51shock it was going to hammer down.

0:32:51 > 0:32:53It has hammered it down since November in England.

0:32:53 > 0:32:56You have to practise for that and make sure you can

0:32:56 > 0:32:58adapt your game plan, your tactics for that.

0:32:58 > 0:33:00That is the challenge they've got, they've got to come up

0:33:00 > 0:33:04with something that allows them to win in England and win in the mud

0:33:04 > 0:33:06in England and in the good weather in England.

0:33:06 > 0:33:08Fair to say Wigan managed to do just that.

0:33:08 > 0:33:10St Helens and Huddersfield fell at the semi-final stage last year,

0:33:10 > 0:33:13both made it to within 80 minutes of the Grand Final.

0:33:13 > 0:33:17They were in opposition at Langtree Park on Friday,

0:33:17 > 0:33:19what did you make of this one, John?

0:33:19 > 0:33:21I thought it was a pretty good game.

0:33:21 > 0:33:24It is a few miles down the road to Wigan.

0:33:24 > 0:33:25We saw what conditions were like there.

0:33:25 > 0:33:28The field looks as if it stood up to it better.

0:33:28 > 0:33:31Interesting as well how many tries were scored within ten metres

0:33:31 > 0:33:34of the opposition line.

0:33:34 > 0:33:36They were playing, as Kurt suggested, field position rugby,

0:33:36 > 0:33:39completion rugby, but that was a pretty nice try for Alan Murphy.

0:33:39 > 0:33:41Look once again.

0:33:41 > 0:33:43They played the ball within the ten metres.

0:33:43 > 0:33:47It is dabbed along the ground.

0:33:47 > 0:33:50Numerous kick tries and numerous short-range tries.

0:33:50 > 0:33:52Again as demonstrated by Mark Percival.

0:33:52 > 0:33:54Paul Anderson talked about Luke Walsh's kicking.

0:33:54 > 0:33:55You know him well.

0:33:55 > 0:33:57He can really control the game.

0:33:57 > 0:33:59He is wonderfully skilled, Luke Walsh.

0:33:59 > 0:34:01A great passing and kicking game.

0:34:01 > 0:34:06You cannot give him that much time.

0:34:06 > 0:34:09There have been so many tries in games at the weekend scored

0:34:09 > 0:34:11within ten metres of the try-line, or off kicks.

0:34:11 > 0:34:15If I was a coach I would be drilling some hard defence on your own line.

0:34:15 > 0:34:16Huddersfield struggling injury wise.

0:34:16 > 0:34:17Wardle did not start the game.

0:34:17 > 0:34:18Grix went.

0:34:18 > 0:34:22Danny Brough went.

0:34:22 > 0:34:27They will need their youngsters.

0:34:27 > 0:34:30It isn't the biggest squad Paul Anderson has had.

0:34:30 > 0:34:33People like Jake Connors will have to put their hand up

0:34:33 > 0:34:34and come through.

0:34:34 > 0:34:37I am sure they will be looking around, scouring clubs to see

0:34:37 > 0:34:38who is not getting in.

0:34:38 > 0:34:40Perhaps looking in the Championship to replace people like Grix,

0:34:40 > 0:34:44because it is a here and now situation.

0:34:44 > 0:34:47It is a long season but you do not want to get left behind

0:34:47 > 0:34:50at the start of it.

0:34:50 > 0:34:52We've often been accused of asking silly questions on this programme,

0:34:52 > 0:34:56and this year we're going to do just that.

0:34:56 > 0:34:58This is Last Tackle, when you'll find out everything

0:34:58 > 0:35:00you need to know about the stars of Super League,

0:35:00 > 0:35:05but were afraid to ask.

0:35:05 > 0:35:08First in the hot-seat are the Warrington Wolves.

0:35:09 > 0:35:12I would have to say I met Anthony Joshua when I was out

0:35:12 > 0:35:13on holiday in Ibiza.

0:35:13 > 0:35:15I would probably say Anthony Joshua the boxer.

0:35:15 > 0:35:16That's a tough question.

0:35:16 > 0:35:19Rio Ferdinand.

0:35:19 > 0:35:21He came to the changing rooms after a good win one weekend.

0:35:21 > 0:35:25Maybe Andrew Johns.

0:35:25 > 0:35:31Steven Gerrard, once.

0:35:31 > 0:35:33Maybe not met him, but walked past him.

0:35:33 > 0:35:34He is one of my idols.

0:35:34 > 0:35:36Probably Arnold Schwarzenegger.

0:35:36 > 0:35:40I was on Santa Monica Strip and he was on a bike and I saw him.

0:35:40 > 0:35:42So I jumped on my bike, spun around.

0:35:42 > 0:35:43Started changing him down the strip.

0:35:43 > 0:35:48"Put that down!"

0:35:48 > 0:35:49Probably thought what an idiot!

0:35:49 > 0:35:52But that is the most famous person I have met.

0:35:53 > 0:35:54Probably definitely Jordan Cox.

0:35:54 > 0:35:55Coxie.

0:35:55 > 0:35:56Jordan Cox.

0:35:56 > 0:35:58His breath stinks!

0:35:58 > 0:36:01Jordan Cox because he is big and he stinks!

0:36:01 > 0:36:04No, he's got a lot to say and a lot of stories.

0:36:04 > 0:36:05He never shuts up.

0:36:05 > 0:36:06Rhys Evans.

0:36:06 > 0:36:09I wouldn't even bat an eyelid.

0:36:09 > 0:36:11One of my favourite actors, Will Ferrell.

0:36:11 > 0:36:13I'm not saying I'm funny.

0:36:13 > 0:36:15I like to see him act.

0:36:15 > 0:36:18What's his name from Braveheart?

0:36:18 > 0:36:21I've been told a few times I look like Channing Tatum.

0:36:21 > 0:36:22I would choose him to play me.

0:36:22 > 0:36:25There is a couple.

0:36:25 > 0:36:26My twin is Channing Tatum.

0:36:26 > 0:36:28I look like a lot.

0:36:28 > 0:36:29Russell Crowe.

0:36:29 > 0:36:30Bruce Willis.

0:36:30 > 0:36:32Leonardo DiCaprio.

0:36:32 > 0:36:33That classy good-looking look.

0:36:33 > 0:36:35Forrest Gump.

0:36:35 > 0:36:36Not Forrest Gump.

0:36:36 > 0:36:40Tom Hanks, who plays Forest Gump.

0:36:40 > 0:36:44Tom Hanks.

0:36:44 > 0:36:47You'll have to cut the Forest Gump bit out.

0:36:47 > 0:36:48There are a few lads.

0:36:48 > 0:36:49Ben Evans rates himself.

0:36:49 > 0:36:51Rhys Evans rates himself.

0:36:51 > 0:36:52He needs a reality check.

0:36:52 > 0:36:53I think.

0:36:53 > 0:36:54Jordan Cox again.

0:36:54 > 0:36:55Jordan Cox.

0:36:55 > 0:36:57Jordan Cox again.

0:36:57 > 0:36:59LAUGHTER.

0:36:59 > 0:37:00George King rates himself.

0:37:00 > 0:37:02God knows why.

0:37:02 > 0:37:05Jordan Cox or George King.

0:37:05 > 0:37:06The true good-looking lads like myself.

0:37:06 > 0:37:10Simsie.

0:37:10 > 0:37:13Who else, we all don't rate ourselves because we know the score.

0:37:13 > 0:37:15Probably Geno thinks he's pretty good.

0:37:15 > 0:37:17He's got the hair.

0:37:17 > 0:37:21Geno.

0:37:21 > 0:37:29He is very good-looking, especially when his hair is down.

0:37:29 > 0:37:31He looks really nice when his hair is down!

0:37:31 > 0:37:33Chuckling along.

0:37:33 > 0:37:34Have you learnt a few things about your team-mates?

0:37:34 > 0:37:37I've learned a few more since those questions were asked.

0:37:37 > 0:37:39Jordan Cox is the product of a fair few jokes.

0:37:39 > 0:37:41He obviously brings it on himself as well.

0:37:41 > 0:37:42He does.

0:37:42 > 0:37:45And don't forget to let us know the questions you'd like us

0:37:45 > 0:37:49to ask your team, just get in touch using the hashtag last tackle.

0:37:49 > 0:37:52Now the last time Wakefield were at Belle Vue it was for the million

0:37:52 > 0:37:53pound game in October.

0:37:53 > 0:37:55The Wildcats won that match to save their Super League lives,

0:37:55 > 0:37:59and their 2016 campaign began at home to Widnes.

0:37:59 > 0:38:02Will either of these teams break into the top eight,

0:38:02 > 0:38:04John?

0:38:04 > 0:38:08That is the big target for both these teams because they certainly

0:38:08 > 0:38:10want to avoid that late and possibly the involvement

0:38:10 > 0:38:12in the million pound game.

0:38:12 > 0:38:12When he throws this dummy.

0:38:12 > 0:38:14Close to the line.

0:38:14 > 0:38:23A great start for Wakefield.

0:38:23 > 0:38:26You can never ever write off Widnes and while they have Keven Brown

0:38:26 > 0:38:28with that lovely short ball playing for them,

0:38:28 > 0:38:30they open up defences and that was what they were

0:38:30 > 0:38:31doing against Wakefield.

0:38:31 > 0:38:34They ended up as if they had Wakefield at arm's length.

0:38:34 > 0:38:36Again that lovely ball.

0:38:36 > 0:38:38They can play good football, can Widnes.

0:38:38 > 0:38:44They will constantly do that.

0:38:44 > 0:38:49Again, we see perhaps not the best decision from the young wing man,

0:38:49 > 0:38:52Johnson, who fields the ball.

0:38:52 > 0:38:55There is no crime to link, but it is the execution of the link

0:38:55 > 0:38:56to Jones Bishop.

0:38:56 > 0:38:57Puts him under too much pressure.

0:38:57 > 0:39:01That broke the hearts of the Wildcats fans.

0:39:01 > 0:39:04Brian Smith was saying if we cut the errors we will get something.

0:39:04 > 0:39:07Is it the early weeks, the kind of thing coaches say?

0:39:07 > 0:39:11It's probably the frustrating part as a coach.

0:39:11 > 0:39:14You train in the off-season and try to drill into the players,

0:39:14 > 0:39:17keep the errors down, play the percentage game.

0:39:17 > 0:39:19Unfortunately these players get too excited sometimes.

0:39:19 > 0:39:28We go away from the game plan.

0:39:28 > 0:39:31Teams that complete well, get to their kicks, kick chase.

0:39:31 > 0:39:32Defend well.

0:39:32 > 0:39:36It is a circle of pressure.

0:39:36 > 0:39:39And they built that, they really did.

0:39:39 > 0:39:42Nice to see Lloyd White crashing over, a Welshman.

0:39:42 > 0:39:46Looking good for the Welsh national team for the World Cup qualifiers.

0:39:46 > 0:39:47Widnes confident they can make it?

0:39:47 > 0:39:50Very much so.

0:39:50 > 0:39:53They have been written off by pundits and I know it has

0:39:53 > 0:39:57irritated one or two of the Widnes boys and they will make sure

0:39:57 > 0:40:00they play to their maximum to avoid that middle eight and qualify

0:40:00 > 0:40:04in the top eight.

0:40:04 > 0:40:06Finally let's celebrate the start of Super League's 21st season

0:40:06 > 0:40:11with a dip into the BBC archives.

0:40:11 > 0:40:14This is from the opening night in 2004, when the Volcano

0:40:14 > 0:40:16erupted in Bradford.

0:40:20 > 0:40:23He is a beast.

0:40:23 > 0:40:28Players say that.

0:40:28 > 0:40:31He is going great for us and the thing I like most he's

0:40:31 > 0:40:34a fantastic bloke and a great character as well.

0:40:34 > 0:40:36Is it fair to say there might be doubts?

0:40:36 > 0:40:38I think the first year questions were asked.

0:40:38 > 0:40:40A new player to a new club, different country and lifestyle,

0:40:40 > 0:40:42a couple of injuries he could not shake.

0:40:42 > 0:40:45I am sure questions were asked.

0:40:45 > 0:40:48I suppose, what are the tactics, just give it to him?

0:40:48 > 0:40:50If you go up against him you get beat.

0:40:50 > 0:40:52He is strong, with great strength.

0:40:52 > 0:40:57His catching is outstanding.

0:40:57 > 0:41:01He is quick over 20 and can maintain his speeds.

0:41:01 > 0:41:03COMMENTATOR: All the way.

0:41:03 > 0:41:08Brutal finish.

0:41:08 > 0:41:11He is a great catcher of the ball, we always knew that.

0:41:11 > 0:41:13He works himself hard in practice.

0:41:13 > 0:41:17The result of his hard efforts.

0:41:17 > 0:41:20Simply unstoppable.

0:41:25 > 0:41:27Kurt, you were coming out in a cold sweat.

0:41:27 > 0:41:29Tell us about your encounter with Lesley Vainikolo.

0:41:29 > 0:41:31I still have nightmares about Lesley.

0:41:31 > 0:41:33I played him in a second, first grade game, I think

0:41:33 > 0:41:40Huddersfield, the 2002 World Club Challenge.

0:41:40 > 0:41:42When Newcastle won in 2001.

0:41:42 > 0:41:45I was 19 years old, probably 80 kilos, ran out on the field.

0:41:45 > 0:41:48Freezing cold, raining, windy, looked up and it was Lesley.

0:41:48 > 0:41:49Not a great night.

0:41:49 > 0:41:52He was a steam roller.

0:41:52 > 0:41:54Physically he was big, intimidating.

0:41:54 > 0:41:56I think it is the hair as well.

0:41:56 > 0:42:01Makes him look bigger.

0:42:01 > 0:42:03Looks like a cranky dude as well sometimes.

0:42:03 > 0:42:07Not one to remember that one.

0:42:07 > 0:42:09John, they started in the Championship.

0:42:09 > 0:42:11We can't go without mentioning Batley's win over Leigh,

0:42:11 > 0:42:13quite some result.

0:42:13 > 0:42:15I am guessing you enjoyed upsetting the pundits.

0:42:15 > 0:42:19We enjoyed it thoroughly.

0:42:19 > 0:42:21We targeted that game through preseason, saying it

0:42:21 > 0:42:24would give us a benchmark to what we can achieve

0:42:24 > 0:42:27and where we can set our sights, should we be competitive and play

0:42:27 > 0:42:28well against them.

0:42:28 > 0:42:31The players did more than that, they were exceptional.

0:42:31 > 0:42:36They found a way to win, even when Leigh had 15 sets

0:42:36 > 0:42:39to our five, we hung in there and came up with the goods

0:42:39 > 0:42:40at the end.

0:42:40 > 0:42:41We are happy at the minute.

0:42:41 > 0:42:43You have been grinning since you came in.

0:42:43 > 0:42:47Can you see a team from the Championship making it

0:42:47 > 0:42:50through the qualifiers into Super League?

0:42:50 > 0:42:53It would justify the system and some say the system needs justifying.

0:42:53 > 0:42:54It may well happen this year.

0:42:54 > 0:42:58Leigh had a lot of new faces.

0:42:58 > 0:43:01They have to bed in as well and I am certain they will improve

0:43:01 > 0:43:02as the season goes along.

0:43:02 > 0:43:05So you would bet on Leigh?

0:43:05 > 0:43:07Halifax were exceptional and Sheffield made it

0:43:07 > 0:43:08to the middle eight.

0:43:08 > 0:43:10Maybe Batley can upset a few people.

0:43:10 > 0:43:12Perhaps we can get in there.

0:43:12 > 0:43:15That's it for this week, my thanks to Kurt and John

0:43:15 > 0:43:16for joining us.

0:43:16 > 0:43:19Week one is done and dusted, but there's plenty more rugby league

0:43:19 > 0:43:21to come on the BBC in 2016.

0:43:21 > 0:43:24Goodbye.

0:44:02 > 0:44:04Mahrez heads it up in the air,

0:44:04 > 0:44:06I think he was being nudged there by Moreno.

0:44:06 > 0:44:09Mahrez kept control of the ball, looking for Vardy,

0:44:09 > 0:44:11Lovren gets a cross... Sakho is looking... Shot!

0:44:11 > 0:44:15What a goal! Sensational volley from Vardy!

0:44:15 > 0:44:18Unbelievable!

0:44:22 > 0:44:24Fancy shaking off the winter blues?