HUNSLET coach Kyle Trout has challenged his side to upset the order over the closing weeks of a difficult campaign for the south Leeds club.

The team chief was appointed in July after starting the season as assistant to Dean Muir, who departed after twelve defeats in 14 league games following promotion from League One.

Trout is contracted to the end of 2026 and with the support of right-hand man Michael Knowles, is already deep into planning for next season.

But he still wants to finish this one as strongly as possible, with games against Widnes (away on Sunday) and at home to Sheffield and Toulouse remaining.

“We have our backs to the wall and all games are big games for us,” he said.

“We are trying to build a culture and reinforce good behaviour with reward.

“Injuries and the loss of some players mean we have had to move players into positions they wouldn’t normally fill, and that has affected the balance of the side.

“But I see progress, and feel we are now a 60- rather than 20-minute team.

“While being disruptive in defence – and there’s no hiding there – we have to be less predictable in attack.”

Trout welcomed back halfback Sam Ackroyd from injury for the 48-10 loss against Halifax, the club’s 18th defeat in 20 Championship games.

His fellow pivot Finley Balback, on loan from Bradford, also caught the eye.