Leon Pryce isn't the first player to find his second season at senior level THE most difficult.

The headlines came thick and fast last term as he stormed Super League resulting in two national awards.

But despite not making the same attacking impact this time around Pryce insists: "I've learned far more this year than I did last and the fact that I'm not scoring the tries I was doesn't bother me like people think.

"There is nothing wrong with my confidence either. It's just that I have not been getting the number of running chances I was last year.

"What I need is a couple of good early touches in games and I seem to grow from there. It happened against Castleford last week and it helped having Mick Withers back because he seems to bring the best out in me.

"I just want to carry that on now and have a strong end to the season. I think people have forgotten that I am only 18 and it was always going to be difficult to keep the momentum going this season, especially with the opposition looking out for me."

But Pryce says the only opinion that matters to him is that of the coaching staff and he has welcomed their support.

"They have been very supportive and Matthew (Elliott) has just told me to try to get the ball in my hands more because that will set things rolling," he says.

"I've also been working on my defence and just want to keep on improving all aspects of my game. I don't look back at what I have acheived so far, I just look forward and concentrate on being the player I want to become."

All players have to overcome setbacks in their career and being left out of the side for the derby at Halifax was one of very few for Pryce so far.

But the confident youngster quickly saw the positive side.

"It was a good one to miss because the side played poorly and those involved got a real ticking off from Matthew the following day.

"Seriously, I just have to deal with it like any other player. Everything came so naturally for me last season but this year I am having to work harder for it and in the long run I think that will make me a better player.

"Everyone is looking at the fact that I am not scoring the tries I was last year but that does not concern me.

"Making a good contribution to the team is what it is all about."

and I am working very hard to play my part."