Edwards calls for Leeds to show derby maturity

Leeds Carnegie’s young backs showed a willingness to run the ball from deep in their opening-weekend defeat to London Welsh.

It was a noble effort, but one that got them into trouble at times, and on a narrow Clifton Lane pitch tomorrow in the heat of a derby atmosphere, Edwards has challenged his players to use the ball wisely.

“We showed a little bit of naivete in terms of our attacking intent,” the head coach said.

“Our intent was brilliant, but we showed a little bit of inexperience with our kicking strategy, in terms of when and where to kick, and also in our kick-chase. This week has been about making sure we’re as well-organised and as physical as we can be and we’ll need to be on Sunday.

“We want to make sure we’re able to play at a speed and an intensity that allows us to play.”

Iain Thornley, on loan from Sale, comes into the starting 15 for the first time, replacing Ollie Richards after making his debut from the bench against Welsh. Dominic Barrow has been named on the replacement bench.

Rotherham also began with a defeat but at an intimidating Clifton Lane, Edwards is expecting Andre Bester’s men to be formidable opponents.

For his part, Bester has a proud record against Leeds to defend, dating back to his first spell with the Titans in the 2006-07 season.

“I’ve never lost to Leeds and I don’t intend to start losing now,” the South African said of the 22-19 and 32-29 victories Rotherham enjoyed over their Yorkshire rivals five years ago.

“It’s always a huge game. I’m expecting a much-improved performance from them, just as I am from my own team.

“Nothing is won in the first month of the season and I expect them to find their groove soon, but again, I fully expect us to find our groove quickly as well.”

Brett Davey takes his Doncaster Knights side to old club Cornish Pirates, the side who reached last year’s play-off final.

The Pirates were held to a draw at Moseley while Doncaster suffered defeat to Bristol on the opening weekend, and Davey has challenged his players to take the game to the hosts.

“We won’t be going to Cornish and starting on the back foot,” said Davey. “We won’t take a backwards step against anyone. Privately I was encouraged with what I saw against Bristol and there’s room for improvement.”