Leeds Rhinos edged out by Warrington in season opener

LEEDS began the defence of their Super League title with a narrow defeat by Warrington Wolves at Headingley.

The hosts, who won the treble last season, could not initially break through a resolute Warrington, who led 6-0 at half-time through Chris Sandow's try.

Brad Singleton and Ryan Hall crossed to edge Leeds in front after half-time but Kevin Penny's converted score gave Warrington a two-point lead and Zak Hardaker failed with a 30-metre penalty which would have earned the Rhinos a draw.

In their first competitive match since the departures of veteran trio Kevin Sinfield, Jamie Peacock and Kylie Leuluai, Leeds lost captain Danny McGuire to injury just before half-time.

Youngster Jordan Lilley stepped into a half-back position to good effect, producing the pass that sent Hall over and giving the home side a 10-6 advantage.

But at no time was Sinfield's absence felt more than four minutes from time when Hardaker, last year's Man of Steel, was unable to land a kick that would have ensured a share of the spoils in the season's opening match.

Warrington finished sixth at the end of a disappointing 2015 campaign but the performances of half-back pairing Sandow and new recruit Kurt Gidley, as well as their powerful forward pack, pointed to encouraging times ahead for Tony Smith's side.

Former Bulls and Great Britain coach Brian Noble was watching the action and said: "They've set a high standard, both of these teams.

"Leeds were hindered a little with the loss of Danny McGuire – but no excuses. Warrington found enough quality in their attack and we saw some sublime touches from Chris Sandow.

"Leeds were dead and buried at one point, so the win comes down to how well Warrington defended. In the scramble moments, when Leeds thought they were getting over the line, somebody popped up with some rib-tickling tackles."