Kids boost Rhinos rampage
Leeds coach Brian McClennan is thrilled to name four home-grown youngsters in his squad to face Bradford on Thursday.
Last Updated: 20/03/08 10:22pm
Leeds coach Brian McClennan is thrilled to name four home-grown youngsters in his squad to face fierce local rivals Bradford at Headingley on Thursday.
Hooker Ben Kaye and second rower Simon Worrall both made their Super League debuts in last week's 48-0 win over Harlequins and are named in the Rhinos 19-man squad to face the Bulls, alongside 18-year-old back rower Danny Allan.
Prop Luke Burgess has also featured this season after coming through the ranks and McClennan is delighted to see new faces emerging from the Rhinos' conveyor belt of talent.
"The squad is good and the Academy system is good," McClennan told Sky Sports News. "We have been able to introduce some players into first grade football and that is exciting in itself.
"To see a young man achieve his dream and play for his club is really rewarding for everyone at the club."
McClennan's men have won five games out of six so far in his first season in charge and are top of the Super League heading into Thursday's derby clash. They have also lifted the World Club Challenge under their new coach.
"We are really happy with the progress so far," he added. "There is a long way to go still so we will keep battling on."