Wane sets sights on Rhinos

Rhinos boss Brian McDermott has admitted the Super League champions will go into Saturday night's game with one an eye on next Friday's clash with NRL kings Manly Sea Eagles.

Wigan were in an identical situation 12 months ago when they were preparing for a duel with St George Illawarra and Wane knows the importance of going into the world title fight battle-hardened.

"We played Bradford last year which was a tough hit-out, just what we needed," said Wane, who spent three years as a player at Leeds in the twilight of his career.

"We weren't far away from St George. Hopefully that is what Leeds will get this weekend. They're two very tough, open rugby teams and I think it will be a great game to watch."

While Leeds made a confident start to the defence of the domestic title with a 34-16 win over Hull KR, Wane had an unhappy beginning to his rein as Warriors' head coach when his side went down 20-16 at home to Huddersfield.

"I know we can perform better than we did last weekend," Wane said.

"We weren't at our best but we still only lost by four points and scored three tries to three. The response from our players has been fantastic."