So finally it's arrived the first round of super league.

First up for the wire we have the rhinos away.

There's been a lot of talk about who will be absent and how much they will be missed.

They will obviously, as we have missed the Morleys Hodgsons and briers. They cannot be replaced but they present a new challenge to the Rhinos as a club who have a tradition for developing their own stars.

I'm sure this challenge will be met and let's face it they've been written off before.

With the new format nobody can afford to get off to a slow start and Headingley is a tough place to get points and also a tough job for the ref.

With a large home support it's important Wire fans turn out in numbers to support the boys or the 50/50s can often swing to the loudest protest.

I believe the squad this year is well equipped to go all the way.

The players coming in complement what we have and vice versa.

Personally I'm looking forward to seeing Daryl Clarke with a year under his belt at the club along with an exciting back row pairing of Currie and Hughes.

These three, with the game management qualities of Gidley and a big front row, I feel will be at the forefront of what could be special year.

Last year proved to be quite unpredictable early on and I would expect something similar across the board.

Aside from the wire I think our old foes Saints will be strong along with Hull FC and Catalan joining the race for the top with considerable investment in the off season.

There are plenty of players to watch out for and aside from Wire players I'd say watch the partnership of Glenn Stewart and Todd Carney with interest. Their skill and understanding of the game are second to none and will cause problems for all teams.

I'm not one for predictions but while I've been asked...

Man Of Steel contenders Hill/Roby/Tomkins

CC finalists Wire v Catalan

Grand Finalists Wire v Saints

Finally I must say a huge thank you to all who came to my testimonial game against Leigh, the club for allowing this to happen and to my testimonial committee who made it so enjoyable and a real success.

Not being one for the spotlight it was a little uncomfortable at times, almost as uncomfortable as hearing many people say such nice things about me in the lead up to the game.

Humbling all round and an experience I'll enjoy while it lasts and cherish when it's over.