Peacock eyes more glory for the Rhinos

Stalwart Jamie Peacock believes they are in even better shape than last year and more than capable of – and eager to – extend their record run to four.

The England prop, however, remains furious that the new season kicks off in less than three weeks' time.

"It's come around fast again, particularly quick this year with us actually starting in January," he said. "I've been quite outspoken on the subject but my feelings are still the same – we need to start the season later."

The champions open their latest defence against Crusaders at Wrexham on Friday, January 29, a week earlier than the official first round of fixtures due to their later involvement in the World Club Challenge.

Although Leeds lifted the Super League trophy at Old Trafford on October 10, their England contingent were still in action five weeks later after reaching the Gillette Four Nations final.

International quartet Peacock, Ryan Hall, Danny McGuire and Kevin Sinfield had just four weeks break before returning to training but they believe it had to be done especially with the World Club Challenge test against Melbourne Storm looming next month.

"We came in early this year, probably because we got caught a bit on the hop against Manly last season," admitted Peacock. "We did not have enough quality training under our belts in time for that World Club Challenge and lost out.

"The four of us were back training together on December 14 and we joined up full-time with the rest of the squad for the first time last week."

Consistent Leeds managed to retain their title last year despite losing two of their 2008 Grand Final winning squad and adding just one new recruit.

That signing – Danny Buderus – even missed the last four months of the season with a broken leg but it did not halt the Rhinos' regular surge.