Leeds Rhinos’ young halfback Jordan Lilley is receiving plenty of praise for his recent performances, even in defeat.
But Lilley, 19, admits that he would prefer to be winning points rather than individual praise from the critics and Leeds supporters.
“I would trade all the headlines about me for some wins,” Lilley told League Express.
“These two teams should be playing a top of the table clash or fighting to stay in the top eight. We shouldn’t be in the bottom four.
“Super League seems very unpredictable this season, which is good for the game but not good for us. We want to be fighting at the top of the table, not at the bottom.”
One highlight for Lilley was a well-taken try in the first half on Friday night, when he touched down in front of the Leeds supporters, while another is the fact that he is playing alongside Rob Burrow, who was one of his coaches when he was coming through the ranks at Leeds.
“I’m a Leeds boy, born and bred, and for me to be scoring tries in front of all the fans is something I love, and I’m very proud and honoured to be able to take the field for Leeds, although our performances are not good.
“Rob is absolutely brilliant, and outstanding to have around the place. He keeps teaching me things I haven’t learned before. He coached me in the 16s and taught me such a lot, and now I’m playing alongside him on the pitch.
“I give so much credit to Rob. Last week (against St Helens) I thought he was absolutely outstanding and he’s followed it up this week.
“I’m learning things every week and if I can keep doing that and keep playing well then it will be beneficial, but hopefully we can play well and get the win as well.”
