There are not many players who are as well versed in playing Leeds than the Hull FC half-back Leon Pryce. He has tasted victory with Bradford and defeat for St Helens against them in Grand Finals, as well as being on the winning side for the Bulls in their 2003 Challenge Cup success. As a native of Bradford, he admits the rivalry with the West Yorkshire neighbours is ingrained.
Hull travel to Headingley on Sunday in an attempt to keep the club’s assault on the Super League top eight on track. “I don’t pay too much attention to the fixtures when they come out, but it’s always one you keep an eye out for,” he says. “Leeds games are always big ones, especially for me – they’ve been my main rival from being a young lad. It’s always a special game and always a great occasion because they’re such a tough team to beat.
“I’ve got good memories against Leeds, but I’ve also got bad ones too – I’ve lost several finals against them. These are the kind of games you don’t need to get up for; they’re big matches and all the players are motivated for them. They’re easy games to prepare for and the Headingley atmosphere makes it special.”
Hull have won six of their last nine games to move into the top eight but Pryce is under no illusions about the importance of victory against the Rhinos. “The defeat against Catalans has put us under a little bit more pressure to find a result. The table is so congested that we could do with a win.”
Leeds will move back to the top of Super League with victory but, with two wins from their last seven games, their campaign is stuttering. Pryce, however, will not be underestimating them. “You’ve got to remember that Leeds over the last few years have been the most successful Super League club around. Regardless of their form, we shouldn’t be writing them off. They might have lost a few recently but they’re a champion team – and a wounded Leeds is a dangerous animal.”
Given his roots Pryce is expecting some friendly abuse from what is expected to be a big crowd for the first of two meetings this week – the teams face each other at the KC Stadium in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals on Friday. “It’s all part of the fun and all part of the game. I’ve always enjoyed playing at Headingley. A bit of stick is all good fun and I’ve definitely got a thick enough skin to take it – I’ve played for long enough now.”
