Leeds Rhinos are well stocked at centre
We all know that results don't mean much in pre-season and as a result, there's no need for Leeds to panic after two defeats in two games. Instead, there are enough individuals performing to suggest they're in a decent spot. The biggest plus point from this game was the performances of Luis Roberts and Levi Edwards, two young centres who Leeds may well need to call upon in round one given Harry Newman and Nene Macdonald are currently out injured. The big question heading into round one has surrounded Rohan Smith's selection in that department but, along with decent stints for Derrell Olpherts and Ash Handley in the role, it's clear they can get by for a period of time. Inevitably, Newman is a certain starter when fit and it would be a big ask of either Roberts or Edwards to handle Super League intensity week in, week out, but there is enough evidence to suggest they can cope when Leeds require reinforcement.
John Asiata will make a big impression on Super League
There will be no sweeping statements or bold predictions from this writer regarding Leigh's prospects for the season based on one pre-season hit out. But what is clear from their win over Leeds is that John Asiata is a serious player. The newly-appointed captain was outstanding in the first half, seamlessly bringing the team's forwards and backs together when they were on the attack and combining brute force with crisp distribution when sinking into the line. Asiata had a solid NRL career and remains a top-level performer. Leeds' defensive line could be heard screaming his name every time the ball headed his way, suggesting they had spotted him up before the game. Leigh's quality dipped when he was taken off, further highlighting his quality. He's set to be a key player for the Leopards in 2023.
Adrian Lam has selection 'spine aches'
It's a testament to the squad assembled by Lam that it's unclear who will play in the spine come round one. Gareth O'Brien was arguably Leigh's best in this outing and certainly did his chances no harm here with a brilliant performance. Capable of playing halfback and fullback, he's competing for places with Lachlan Lam, Ben Reynolds, Joe Mellor and Zak Hardaker, who scored the match-winning try. Hardaker is another conundrum given he's one of the best fullbacks out there but also one of the best centres. With so many options, Lam has a big decision to make before they play Salford.
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Sam Lisone needs time
Leeds' new NRL recruit took to the field for the first time after his move from Gold Coast Titans and was "steady" in the words of his head coach. Lisone, admittedly, didn't set the world alight as he got minutes under the belt. Smith said after the game that Lisone was some way off top form having not played since September and after missing part of the off-season. Nevertheless, with Mikolaj Oledzki absent for the opening chunk of the season as he recovers from surgery, the Rhinos could do with their new powerhouse stepping up in time for round one. He has three more pre-season games to get up to speed, which hopefully will do the trick.
Leigh need to make LSV a fortress
Just under 3,000 people attended this game but despite the ground not being half full and it only being a pre-season friendly, the Leythers on the terraces created a fantastic atmosphere. They were into the ref from the first whistle, roared their team on and dished it out to the Leeds players too. LSV is a hostile ground and that's largely because of the fans, Leigh have to use that to their advantage upon their return. They won their last two Super League games played at their home venue but they'll need to convert that into more points this time to achieve what they've set out.
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