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Matthew Shaw

Leeds Rhinos prove that trusting the process is more than a cliché

Leeds Rhinos are in the play-offs following their big 34-14 victory over Salford Red Devils, here are the talking points following their latest triumph.

Always looking at the bigger picture

Leeds Rhinos fans have had to get used to their side starting slow in recent times. It's only a few months back since Leeds hosted Toulouse at Headingley and there was talk of it being a relegation four-pointer.

Leeds are now in the top six and being considered as play-off dark horses with five rounds to go. There's a lesson for all of us in there that is worth holding on to with the bigger picture in mind.

Read more: Paul Rowley blasts decision to not punish Leeds Rhinos halfback Aidan Sezer for suspension-worthy offence

The nature of sport means all focus is on every single result. When things don't go to plan, the automatic response is to panic. Two seasons running now, Rhinos fans have been left in a state of panic after slow starts, both times, they've salvaged the situation.

Of course, it's not condoning Leeds' start to the season, but it does show that sometimes, you really do have to trust the process.

Leeds are still some way from being where they want to be and it won't all be as smooth sailing as it is right now. There are still a lot of long-term issues, mainly the salary cap, that won't be fixed overnight.

But when the going does get tough, Leeds fans would do well to remember the bigger picture.

Rhyse Martin - player of the season?

It's that time of year when we start to ponder end-of-season awards and you'd suspect the back-rower is going to be in the conversation.

Several players could arguably be considered as Leeds' best of the season but it's safe to say that Martin is definitely among the leading contenders for that title. He was brilliant against Salford, scoring 22 points on the way.

It's not his first man of the match display this season and his performances this year have been far improved on last year, a campaign in which he has been open about his struggles.

For what it's worth, Ash Handley would be getting the award from this writer at present, but Martin wouldn't be too far behind.

Points on points

Another 34 points were clocked up on Sunday, taking Leeds' tally to 314 in 11 games under Smith. That averages out a 28.5 per game. For context, they'd be the second-highest point scorers in Super League this season had they done that all season.

Before Smith arrived, Leeds were scoring at an average of 14.6 points per game. The improvement with the ball has been enormous and the head coach deserves a lot of praise for that.

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