Peacock eyes more glory for the Rhinos

Stalwart Jamie Peacock believes they are in even better shape than last year and more than capable of – and eager to – extend their record run to four.

The England prop, however, remains furious that the new season kicks off in less than three weeks' time.

"It's come around fast again, particularly quick this year with us actually starting in January," he said. "I've been quite outspoken on the subject but my feelings are still the same – we need to start the season later."

The champions open their latest defence against Crusaders at Wrexham on Friday, January 29, a week earlier than the official first round of fixtures due to their later involvement in the World Club Challenge.

Although Leeds lifted the Super League trophy at Old Trafford on October 10, their England contingent were still in action five weeks later after reaching the Gillette Four Nations final.

International quartet Peacock, Ryan Hall, Danny McGuire and Kevin Sinfield had just four weeks break before returning to training but they believe it had to be done especially with the World Club Challenge test against Melbourne Storm looming next month.

"We came in early this year, probably because we got caught a bit on the hop against Manly last season," admitted Peacock. "We did not have enough quality training under our belts in time for that World Club Challenge and lost out.

"The four of us were back training together on December 14 and we joined up full-time with the rest of the squad for the first time last week."

Consistent Leeds managed to retain their title last year despite losing two of their 2008 Grand Final winning squad and adding just one new recruit.

That signing – Danny Buderus – even missed the last four months of the season with a broken leg but it did not halt the Rhinos' regular surge.

This time around, Lee Smith is the only player to have left, moving to Wasps RU, but coach Brian McClennan has strengthened with the capture of Kiwi World Cup winner Greg Eastwood and fiery Australian centre Brett Delaney so it is hard to see where any potential weak link may lie.

Peacock agreed: "On paper, we've got a very strong squadthis year. Those two have come in are both quality players while we've also got Bedsy (Buderus) back from injury too so we're well set. But the younger lads have also had another year's experience now and we're really in fit shape."

Having become the first side in history to win three consecutive Super League titles, Leeds are in no mood to ease up.

"We set ourselves goals at the beginning of the year and to win the Grand Final is always one of those," added Peacock, "It's why we play. It will be difficult as some squads have strengthened particularly well for this season.

"Hull, Bradford and Warrington have all recruited and Wigan have a new man in charge. A new head coach could have more impact than any player and I think, generally, it might be more difficult getting three or four wins on the bounce this season.

"Super League could be a bit like it is in the NRL in that respect but it is always about timing at the end and we know that."