LEEDS RHINOS enter the Women’s Super League play-offs on a four-match losing run but coach Lois Forsell insists she’s not too concerned as they prepare to host York Valkyrie for a Grand Final spot.
Fourth last season, Leeds have made real progress this year, and won eight successive games to clinch a top-three place with fixtures to spare.
But they’ve since been beaten by York (18-14 away), Wigan twice (26-20 away and 50-12 at home) and St Helens (24-22 at home).
“The one against Wigan at home we weren’t happy with, but Saints at the weekend came down to a kick whether we got a draw or not,” said Forsell.
“I don’t think our form is a major issue. There is a little bit of detail here and there that we need to tidy up on, but there has been good progress.
“If you look back to the beginning of the year, I think a lot of people would have written us off. We had a lot of changes in personnel at the club. We have a young team, but some of those players have stepped up and gone above and beyond.
“Ruby Bruce came on this weekend and turned the game on its head. Ruby Walker has stepped into a big position at halfback and come on so much – she’s had some really good games and we’re looking forward to her keeping that going.
“Ebony Stead has been outstanding on the wing, (fullback) Ruby Enright is still young in exposure because of the injuries she had early in his career, and Connie Boyd in the centres has been really good for us.
“(Fellow centre) Evie Cousins has managed to get consistent game time and has been great. There are so many names you can name.
“They’ve worked hard enough this season to have an ending where they get to a Grand Final, and there’s no reason why we can’t go and lift that trophy.”