Jesse will lift gloom

FAVOURITE: Sene-Lefao IT TAKES a lot to wipe the smile from Jesse Sene-Lefao’s face, so it’s no surprise he’s taking Castleford’s current mini-slump in his giant stride.

Sene-Lefao’s easygoing nature coupled with his all-action displays have made him a favourite since arriving from the NRL.

And the New Zealandborn forward is loving life in West Yorkshire.

Now they will expect even more from Sene-Lefao with five of the side that beat Leeds Rhinos 29-18 at last year’s Magic Weekend – including Man of Steel Luke Gale – sidelined.

But ‘Big Jesse’ is optimistic last season’s Grand Final runners-up can win for only the second time in five league and cup outings in a rematch with the champions tonight.

“I have full confidence in the guys coming in,” said Sene-Lefao.

“We have a 32-man squad for a reason and it’s times like these when guys get the opportunity to make a career for themselves.”

Hull KR half-back Chris Atkin believes he can be a lesson to all youngsters discarded in their teenage years.

Atkin’s route to Super League has seen him cut adrift by Widnes at 19, qualify as a PE teacher, play part-time with Swinton in the Championship and then win promotion with Rovers.

“Leaving teaching wasn’t an easy decision,” said Atkin ahead of tomorrow’s derby with Hull FC.

“But I knew I might never get another chance to play professionally.”