Rhinos raise festive cheer for new boy Connolly

Leeds enjoyed a 20-2 victory in their Boxing Day friendly against Castleford but the biggest cheer was reserved for the half-time introduction of their new signing, Gary Connolly.

Released by Wigan despite having a year left on his contract, Connolly had become resigned to playing out his career with the rugby union club Orrell. But his heart remained in league and he jumped at the chance to extend his Super League career with Leeds.

"I'm a rugby league player, and I think I have two or three years left in me," said Connolly, who has signed a two-year contract at Headingley. "I would have played union but, when a club like Leeds come in for you, it's an honour. There was some other interest, but I wouldn't have signed for anybody else."

The Leeds coach, Daryl Powell, said Connolly would add vital experience to a largely youthful squad. "We have a lot of young players who have great potential, and Gary will help them, but we also need experience to make sure we are successful in the short term," explained Powell.

The Rhinos scored four tries without reply in a scrappy encounter through Rob Burrow, Richard Mathers, Matt Adamson and Peter Lupton.