Leeds Rhinos want to win Challenge Cup final for Rob Burrow, says Luke Gale

LEEDS RHINOS captain Luke Gale hopes to lift the Coral Challenge Cup this afternoon in honour of a man who is never far from his side’s thoughts.
Let's do it for Rob Burrow (Picture: Steve Riding)Let's do it for Rob Burrow (Picture: Steve Riding)
Let's do it for Rob Burrow (Picture: Steve Riding)

Club legend Rob Burrow, who played almost 500 games for Rhinos, featured in a BBC documentary this week chronicling his brave battle with the incurable motor neurone disease.

As a fellow scrum-half, Gale already had massive respect for the 38-year-old former England star.

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As they prepare for today’s Wembley date with Salford Red Devils, he said: “Rob’s been in our thoughts for all of the season – from the (testimonial) game in January all the way through.

“The documentary that came out was so emotional, just how much of an inspiration he’s been for the rugby league community, ourselves, his family.

“It just shows you what a character he is. He played with No 7 on his jersey and every time he took to the field he gave it 100 per cent. That’s what I want to do in honour of him.”

Gale, who was in Rhinos’ academy when Burrow was in his pomp, added; “It’s a massive honour (to wear that shirt).

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“If I can go out and play like Rob did... I’ve played against him for most of my career wearing the seven shirt and he gives it his all, leaves every bit out there. If I can do that I’ll be a proud man. I’m proud to wear the seven jersey and lead the boys out.

Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)
Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)

“I’m sure he’ll be watching with his family and he’s definitely at the forefront of our thoughts.”

Rhinos will wear their 2021 jersey in honour of Burrow who was only diagnosed in December but can now only talk via a phone app and needs a wheelchair.

The RFL has also made him their Chief Guest ‘in absentia’.

Chairman Simon Johnson said: “Rob remains central to the day and in all our hearts.

Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)
Luke Gale. (Picture: SWPix.com)

“He represents the best of the sport.”

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Johnson added: “An inspirational player, a dedicated father, husband and son, and now an inspiration as a campaigner, Rob is beloved by everyone in Rugby League and by many, many friends of our sport.

“For this highly unusual Challenge Cup Final – with no supporters in the ground, and no traditional presentation of the trophy - we are delighted that he accepted our invitation to be Chief Guest in absentia.

“Rob has chosen to use this platform to say ‘thank you’ again to the Rugby League community for its support to him and his family, and to further raise awareness of MND on behalf of those living with the disease who do not have a public profile.

“Together with the MND Association and Rob, a simple text-to-give service has been set up in honour of our Chief Guest to enable all of us in the Rugby League Community and beyond to further show our love and support over the Coral Challenge Cup Final weekend. And raise much needed funds for the MND Association.

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“Every Challenge Cup Final has a Chief Guest who is special to the sport and in this year it is the sport’s very great honour that this is Rob Burrow.”

Rhinos full-back Richie Myler added: “It’s not that long ago that Rob was playing in a Grand Final.

“We’ve been thinking about him all year, and especially wearing the new kit with a reference to him in it, with the seven stripes.

“That’s also a gesture towards him. He’s in everybody’s hearts and prayers.”

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