Matt Newsum is joined by former Great Britain head coach Brian Noble and St Helens prop forward Kyle Amor to analyse the Easter weekend fixture double-header and discuss how players and coaches react, adapt and survive the rigours of this period. ‘Rivals Round’ includes the titanic clashes between St Helens and Wigan, Hull KR versus Hull FC and Toulouse head coach Sylvain Houles talks of the importance of the first French Super League derby between his side and Catalans Dragons.

Time codes:

01:00 – The team first reflect on the four Challenge Cup quarter-final ties that took place last weekend.

08:45 – How do players and coaches address the congested Easter fixture schedule.

14:40 – Brian remembers playing 4 games in 10 days for Bradford Northern, where recovery was done down the pub.

15:40 – Kyle compares the current recovery strategies, including –240 degree cryo chambers, but also says mental recovery is just as important.

18:50 – Kyle and Brian think the mental side of the game is actually now harder than the physical side.

22:30 - Discussion on the games in Rivals Round – under pressure Leeds face Huddersfield.

24:10 – The first ever French Super League derby as Catalans host Toulouse.

24:45 - Kyle quotes the Catalan captain Ben Garcia who has said their derby will determine who are the best team in France. Brian thinks Super League needs more of this fighting talk.

27:00 - A brief interview with Toulouse Head Coach on Sylvain Houles on the game and the ‘friendly’ rivalry between the two clubs.

35:15 – Warrington’s struggles continue – they have apparently gone away for a ‘reset camp’ over the last week to help tell some home truths.

38:00 – The Hull derby – The match-up between fierce rivals Hull KR and Hull FC is probably closer now than its been in a long time.

42:00 – St Helens v Wigan – living on the border between the two towns, Kyle is hoping still be able to walk his dog after Friday’ game without being egged.

44:00 – It’s said it’s the third game that follows the Easter fixtures where teams crumble and shock results happen.