READY FOR LIFT-OFF

Smith’s sure quality will return

GOOD TO GO: Smith

The start of the new season had already been delayed until mid-March and ongoing virus concerns led to it being pushed back a further two weeks.

But Hull KR boss Smith is confident that frustrated fans will be served up a feast of entertainment when it does finally resume.

He said: “It means we’ve got a long pre-season and many players are grateful for that, particularly international players who are used to having really short pre-seasons.

“All the players will be better prepared, both physically and in what we are able to do as a team.

“While they are not ideal circumstances, there are some benefits in terms of preparation.

“Hopefully that will help ward off injury risks throughout the season and there will be skilful rugby when we return.

“Conditions aren’t usually that conducive to open rugby when you start in early February.

“Fingers crossed the quality will be better and quicker in March.”

Rovers finished 11th last year, winning only three of their 17 league games but ex-England boss Smith insists this season will be better.

He said: “It was disappointing but there were some incredible circumstances and challenges for us.” Vice-captain Mose Masoe suffered a career-ending spinal injury in pre-season and Smith admits it badly affected his team-mates.

He added: “We had a lot of players who were getting counselling for some time.

“Some players struggled but Sporting Chance were fantastic in coming in and helping us as a group and individually.

“It was an experience I hope we never have to deal with again.”