Jack the lad is just a chip off the old block
SINFIELD PUTS FEET UP
LEEDS RHINOS’ Jack Sinfield celebrated his Betfred Super League debut with a quiet night in with the family.
Given he is only 17, he is not legally old enough to drink. But you sense the talented halfback, son of Rhinos legend Kevin, would not be hitting the town even if he could.
He had shown impressive maturity and composure during a surprise first-team bow in the Easter Monday 16-14 defeat by Castleford.
And then it was feet up in front of the telly, which was very apt for the teenager who had dad, mum Jayne and brother Sam watching in the Wheldon Road stands.
Sinfield said: “My mum and dad told me they were proud of me. That means a lot. I want to make them and my little brother proud.
“They were really happy for me. And after the match, we were all just chilling at home as a family with the TV on.
“It [my debut] all still feels just a bit surreal. I can’t believe it’s happened. I’m a bit sore but just glad I got the first one out of the way.
“Hopefully I’m not as nervous next time.”
Marshalling a Leeds side who have won just one of their opening 10 games would not be easy for a decorated veteran let alone a raw rookie.
Sinfield also saw his half-back partner Blake Austin depart injured early on but he still came up with some of Rhinos’ best moments.
His father led Leeds to seven Grand Final wins and captained England. So what words of advice did his dad have before the kick-off?
“Just to work as hard as I can, make sure I enjoy it and stick to what I usually do,” said Sinfield, who was only promoted to the first-team squad in the off-season. “He told me to make sure I make the most of it.
“I’m pleased to get the first one out of the way but not happy with the result. We’re close and a win is coming soon.
“Hopefully we can build on it and keep moving forward.” With Austin ruled out, Sinfield is likely to face bottom-placed Toulouse Olympique at Headingley on Friday.
Yet it was only last Thursday he was there scoring the matchwinning drop goal for Rhinos’ academy side against Wigan.
Sinfield said: “It has all come quickly. But I am enjoying it. I hope to get another chance.”
Leeds, a point above Toulouse, have more problems with James Bentley picking up a twogame ban.