However, like all things in life, it isn't black-and-white, one-thing-or-another. True the defeat of Nottingham was a good result. True, Nottingham were tipped as dark horses to challenge for the title this year. However the Nottingham fans and media were none too impressed by their team's performance on that day, and there is a firm suggestion that 34-19 against the way that team played was actually no great shakes in itself.

And of course, as spectators, some of long standing, we've come to recognise "The Leeds Way" of getting through a match. A lack of concentration for the full 80 minutes is what characterises the games of the last three or four years, and stepping in to the stadium with the full expectation of anything but a nail-biting finish is unheard of for Leeds fans.

So we come to Exeter. Another team who did well last year, and who are tipped as red-hot second-favourites for the league title this year. Two toughies in as many weeks for the Yorkshiremen. People have talked about this game as if it was the season decider, but the second game of the season is never a decider. It will give colour and flavour to the promotion race one way or another, however.  Exeter have invested heavily in all areas of their rugby club, not least in the playing squad, with apparently a roster of 48 individuals set to grace their Sandy Park pitch this season. Recruitment has come from both the cream of last year's ND1 players and also considerable talent from the Premiership, and it's clear that Exeter mean business.

Leeds, however, also mean business, and the win against Nottingham last week whilst stuck in third gear will give both cheer and pause for thought for Andy Key and Neil Back. They will have to raise their game considerably to get a win this week, and have named a strong squad to attempt just that feat. With Scott Mathie making his first league start, and Fosi Pala'amo coming into the front row from minute 1, it appears the tactic is to secure first phase possession and whip the ball out quickly and accurately. The other change from last week is that Richard Welding comes into the starting line-up on the wing, a fine reward for his cameo role in Biggsy's bonus-point try last week.

It'll be tough. It'll possibly be brutal, but it will also be fizzing with attacking potential, and it'll no doubt be a fine game to watch and be a part of.

Prediction: Leeds to shade it 12-16.

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