Leeds Rhinos players discuss Rob Burrow’s inspiration after a tough spell

Leeds Rhinos hope their season has gained a new boost after last weekend’s win over Leigh Leopards: after channeling their emotions on a difficult night in the right way.

Many wondered whether the outpouring of grief and emotion that gripped Headingley last Friday following the death of Rob Burrow earlier in the month would have a negative impact on the Rhinos’ players and influence their performance against Leigh.

But in front of the biggest crowd at Headingley for years, Leeds certainly delivered, winning 18-10 to potentially breathe new life into their Super League play-off push.

Few were as emotional after the game as midfielder Brodie Croft, who broke down live on Sky Sports after the game. He later admitted the Rhinos players were determined to put on a show for all those watching and show they were desperate to pay Burrow a fitting tribute.

“We talked about trying to control our emotions. We knew it would be a big occasion for the club and everyone involved in rugby league,” he said.

“I knew the emotions would be high, but there was no option not to win. We wanted to make sure it was a special day for the club and everyone involved.”

And for prop Jarrod O’Connor, there was almost a sense of relief that they were able to deliver and secure victory on an emotional evening at Headingley.

He said Loves Rugby League: “We’re relieved we were able to put on that performance for Rob and end the night on a high note,” said O’Connor. “We are just over the moon and honored that we got to honor Rob the right way.”

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“Everybody just had that little bit of extra energy. I think that’s what we’ve been missing the last two weeks and we had that drive as well and we definitely had it. A lot of us got to know him and that brought us together this week and it definitely showed on the field.”

Perhaps the most fitting moment of the entire evening was the try by Matt Frawley, who will wear the number seven Burrow made famous during his playing days with Leeds.

He said: “I don’t think you can put it into words, to be honest. It’s just a special moment for everyone involved. It’s nice for me to try it, but it’s more special for everyone who experienced it. I said I’m just the caretaker of that shirt and it’s important to represent it well.”

The Rhinos return to Super League action next weekend at home to London Broncos – as their hunt for a successor to Rohan Smith continues during the international break.

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