Leeds Rhinos: Ward to be given time to prove Cup fitness

Leeds Rhinos' head coach Brian McDermott pictured at today's Ladbrokes Challenge Cup press conference.

INJURED FORWARD Stevie Ward will be given until the “11th hour” to prove his fitness for Leeds Rhinos’ Ladbrokes Challenge Cup semi-final.

Friday’s tie comes four weeks after Ward – one of Rhinos’ top players this year – suffered an ankle injury in a Super League win over Cup opponents St Helens.

He was initially told he would be sidelined for between four and six weeks and boss Brian McDermott says he has “a chance” of playing this week.

“We won’t make that call until later in the week,” McDermott said.

“He is no more than 50-50, but with the form he has been in and the type of player he is, I want to give him until the 11th hour.”

McDermott said centre Joel Moon is expected to be available for Friday’s tie, at Warrington’s HJ Stadium, after missing Sunday’s win over Catalans Dragons due to an Achilles problem.

Rhinos came through the win over Catalans with no major new injury concerns, McDermott said.