Leeds Rhinos Coach Facing Criticism, But Former Favorite Believes in His Success
Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith has faced his fair share of scrutiny this season, with sections of the club’s travelling support even chanting for his dismissal following a narrow Super League win over struggling Hull FC. However, a comfortable victory over London Broncos has somewhat eased the pressure on the young Australian coach.
Despite the recent criticism, a former Leeds fan favorite, Matt Adamson, who represented the eight-time Super League champions between 2002 and 2004, believes Smith is on the right track to achieve success at Headingley. Adamson, who ended his time at the club with a Grand Final ring after the Rhinos’ triumph over Bradford, remains an avid supporter of the team from afar.
“Rohan’s a very intelligent, smart, young, innovative coach. I tend to think that he’s doing a good job at the moment. He will continue to do a good job.”
The former Rhinos forward acknowledged the squad’s injury woes, which have seen key players like David Fusitu’a, Harry Newman, Brodie Croft, James Bentley, and youngsters Morgan Gannon and Riley Lumb sidelined. Adamson believes that once the Rhinos can field a fully fit squad, they will be in a strong position to challenge come the business end of the season.
“It’s a good squad, it’s a young squad, there’s some key personnel [missing], they’re probably just trying to get some combinations going, but they’ll be there come back end of the year.”
Adamson’s unwavering support for the Rhinos is a testament to the club’s passionate fan base, which he described as “no greater fans I think in the game than the Leeds Rhinos fans.”
Despite his love for Leeds, Adamson also shared his openness to coaching opportunities elsewhere in England, should they arise. “Opportunities don’t always come but if another opportunity was to come, then I’d love the opportunity to give it a crack,” he revealed.
As Leeds Rhinos continue their quest for success, the endorsement from a former favorite like Adamson could provide a much-needed boost for Rohan Smith and his team.
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