If the past few games proved Rohan Smith had got Leeds Rhinos on the right track, Friday's defeat to Huddersfield Giants exposed how far they still have to travel. You could sense as the Rhinos faithful arrived at the John Smith's Stadium that there was a sense of belief, maybe even a tinge of expectation.
This is Leeds after all. You suspect a return to the status quo is just around the corner and, after two straight wins, a typical play-off ascent seemed realistic. But like it or not, to take Leeds back to the top table a lot of work is ahead. This won't work itself out overnight, that was proven here.
Take nothing away from Ian Watson's side, they were magnificent, but they dug up some painful reminders of the weaknesses within this side. This game was always going to be the true test of Leeds' credentials. Victories over Wakefield and Warrington were morale-boosting but this was always going to be a step up standard. In the end, it showed.
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It wasn't all doom and gloom. Leeds, without livewire captain Kruise Leeming still managed to make metres up field and despite not quite firing fully, they still scored three tries against one of Super League's meanest defences.
But some of the other weaknesses on show throughout the year reared their head. The kicking game wasn't good enough as balls sailed out on the full or for seven tackle sets. Defensively Leeds have been seen as a sloppy team in and around the ruck and that was on show here. In the first half particularly, too many players were left on the floor or unable to win contacts.
Huddersfield more than played their part in making that happen. Some of their execution on the edges was exceptional, but the Rhinos had to do more to stem the tide.
Not all hope is lost. Leeds got to grips with the game in the second half and actually outscored the Giants in the second half. They went toe to toe with one of Super League's best sides for 40 minutes. That at least gives them something to build on.
As the year goes on, it shouldn't be a surprise to see Leeds go hot and cold. They're capable of delivering exceptional performances but they're also guilty of dipping too far below the required standard. That simply is where this team is at right now and a change in personnel, not just a coach, will be needed to sort that out. Leeds are likely to deliver cause for optimism and reality checks in equal measure. As has been said over and over again, this is no quick fix.
