MATTY Russell is adamant Wolves will not be “this year’s Leeds Rhinos” despite their poor start to the 2017 season.

After winning the treble in 2015, Brian McDermott’s side underperformed last year and had to fight for their Super League survival in the Middle 8s.

Many observers have drawn comparisons between last year’s struggles at Headingley Carnegie and 2017’s Wolves vintage, but Russell was quick to brush them off.

While admitting retaining the League Leaders’ Shield may be too much of an ask, the winger insists the team’s other targets are still achievable and hopes Saturday’s 22-22 draw with Hull FC can act as the turning point in their season.

“I don’t think we will finish as far down the table as Leeds did last year but if they can turn it around, I don’t see why we can’t,” he said.

“Hull struggled at the start last year. They ended up kicking their coach out of the changing room at one point.

“That was their turning point and hopefully, Saturday can act as ours.

“The League Leaders’ Shield might be a bit far away but we’re still keen to fight for the Challenge Cup and the Grand Final.

“We feel both of those are still achievable for us.”

Russell’s hat-trick on Saturday saw him open his Super League account for the season, but he insists he does not have a target for tries scored.

“It’s always good to be on the end of moves but sometimes the people who set you up don’t necessarily get the plaudits,” he said.

“I never really have targets in terms of tries, if I create as many as I score I’d be happy.”