Ellis dreams of lifting trophy

Leeds' international forward Gareth Ellis is desperately hoping for the opportunity to fulfil his ambition this year by tasting Grand Final glory.

The Great Britain second rower has not looked back since he joined the Rhinos from Wakefield three years ago but he has yet to experience the joy of lifting a trophy and the Rhinos have a chance to reach next week's Grand Final when they meet Wigan in Friday's eliminator at Headingley.

Ellis said: "I know what it's like to be involved in them (Grand Finals) but I don't know what it's like to win one. I'm sure it is pretty special and one I want to experience. This is our opportunity but we've got but got to beat Wigan first."

He added: "I made my debut for Leeds in the 2005 World Club Challenge and won that but I never felt part of it because I felt that the team in 2004 had really earned the right to be in that.

"I had a pretty successful year from my own point of view and played in both the Grand Final and Challenge Cup final but failed to win either."

Ellis admits Leeds were deflated by last week's 10-8 defeat by St Helens but insists they have put the setback behind them and will be determined to make the most of their second chance.

"It was massively disappointing," he said. "Personally I didn't really consider anything else. There was no plan B until after the 80 minutes and it took a little bit to get over.

"But we have another chance and we need to put it right. There is a lot at stake. Chances to play in Grand Finals don't come around too often.

"It's hearts-on-your-sleeve time, you've got to really go for it and not have any regrets after the 80 minutes. There is a lot of desire in our team."