Super League Round 27 Preview

After an exciting and unpredictable season which has made for the closest fight for the play-offs and the League Leaders Shield since the League's inception back in 1996.  Round 27 brings down the curtain on the regular rounds as the post season play-offs await on the horizon and just two points currently separate second and fifth place.

Tonight sees the first of the battles to finish in the top four as Warrington make the short trip to face rivals Wigan with the sides sitting third and fourth in the table on 35 points. The match will of course be a great spectacle given that the sides faced-off in last season's Grand Final and many have tipped to them to stage a repeat on October 11th.

Wigan go into the game in mixed form with just two wins and a draw from their last five games but they will be brimming with confidence after a stunning 21-6 win over Leeds which sees them with the chance to finish as high as second but also as low as fifth so a win is a must to get a good boost into the play-offs.

Warrington go into the game with three wins and a draw from their last five games including a comfortable 39-12 victory over table toppers St Helens just a week ago so confidence will be high as they look to secure second place and a home berth in the play-offs but alike Wigan they could also finish fifth.

Last season's meeting at the DW Stadium saw a cracking encounter end 17-17 as Lee Briers kicked a post-assisted drop goal to prevent a Wigan win but the Warriors bounced back by coming from 16-2 behind in the Grand Final to claim a 30-16 win and deny the Wolves a maiden SL title.

This season's reverse meeting saw Wigan end a run of seven games without a win over Warrington in the league as they triumphed 12-4 at the Halliwell Jones stadium which puts them on course for a first league double over the Wolves since 2003.

Wigan include Joe Burgess who came in late last week after an injury to Dom Manfredi with Anthony Gelling retained in the 19 after recovering from illness while Warrington recall Chris Bridge, Anthony England and Ben Evans with Simon Grix likely to have played his last game this season after suffering a broken ankle at St Helens.

Wigan Warriors: Bateman, Bowen, Burgess, Charnley, Clubb, Crosby, Dudson, Farrell, Flower, Gelling, Green, Hughes, McIlorum, O'Loughlin, Pettybourne, Powell, Sarginson, Smith, Tomkins
Warrington Wolves: Asotasi, Atkins, Bridge, Currie, England, B Evans, R Evans, Harrison, Higham, Hill, Laithwaite, J Monaghan, M Monaghan, Myler, O'Brien, Ratchford, Russell, Waterhouse, Wood.

All bias aside, this will be a cracker of a game and I see it being very close with a narrow Wigan win so Wigan 24 Warrington 22.

Friday night features three games with the standout tie being table toppers St Helens travelling to face Huddersfield with the visitors knowing any positive result would see them claim the League Leaders Shield for the first time since 2008.

Huddersfield go into the game in great form with four wins from their last five games which has seen them move from a seemingly cemented sixth place to the potential to claim a top four place depending on the result of tonight's game. The Giants have been a victim of their own success this year after claiming the League Leaders Shield in 2013, they have stuttered this season and a top four finish would equal success.

St Helens go into the game with three wins in their last five games but off the back of a damaging defeat to Warrington which saw them miss the first chance to claim the League Leaders Shield but with Castleford not playing until Saturday, a positive result will see the Saints claim the trophy.

Last season's meeting at the John Smith's Stadium saw the Giants secure a 25-16 victory as part of a league double which included a 40-4 win that spoiled Nathan Brown's first meeting against his former club last February. This season's reverse meeting saw St Helens secure a 41-22 win that puts them on course for a league double but their other meeting this season in the Challenge Cup saw a controversial 17-16 win for St Helens which also saw a suspension for Giants forward Brett Ferres.

Huddersfield have omitted Danny Brough and Eorl Crabtree with Josh Johnson and Leroy Cudjoe returning while St Helens recall Mark Percival after concussion in place of Shannon McDonnell who will miss the rest of the season due to a broken jaw.

Huddersfield Giants:  Murphy, McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, Broughton, Connor, Robinson, Kaufusi, Lunt, Johnson, Ferres, Patrick, Lawrence, Kopczak, Ta’ai, Bailey, Faiumu, Mullally, Fairbank
St Helens: Makinson, Turner, Jones, Swift, Hohaia, Masoe, Roby, McCarthy-Scarsbrook, Soliola, Manu, Laffranchi, Flanagan, Amor, Wellens, Walmsley, Percival, Wheeler, Dawson, Thompson.

As the Giants will be without two of their stars, the game may swing to Saints so Huddersfield 18 St Helens 26.

The second game on  Friday sees Leeds travel across Yorkshire to face Hull FC with the Rhinos knowing a top four finish is out of their reach after last weeks defeat at Wigan.

Hull FC go into the game with just two wins from their last five games which have seen them drop to 12th place but should other results go their way they could finish ninth and above city rivals Hull KR which would be some little success to an overall poor season for the Black and Whites.

Leeds go into the game in horrific form despite winning the Challenge Cup with just one win in their last five games with defeats to Wigan and St Helens ending their hopes of finishing in the top four or even the hallowed fifth place led to a famous Grand Final win but they could be the first to win the title from sixth.

Last season's meeting at the KC Stadium saw Hull secure a 18-6 win, something they would be happy to repeat given that they suffered a 20-6 defeat in this season's reverse meeting at Headingley and for Leeds they have won four of the last five meetings between the sides and have limited the Airlie Birds to less than ten points in all five encounters.


Hull are likely to hand a farewell to Richard Horne with academy product Jack Logan retained in the 19 while Leeds have named a strong 19 with Danny McGuire and Rob Burrow recalled after sitting out the last two games.

Hull FC: Bowden, Colbon, Cunningham, Ellis, Green, Hadley, Heremaia, Horne, Houghton, Lineham, Logan, Paea, Rankin, Talanoa, Thompson, Watts, Westerman, Yeaman, Abdull
Leeds Rhinos: Hardaker, Watkins, Hall, McGuire, Burrow, Leuluai, Aiton, Peacock, Jones-Buchanan, Ablett, Sinfield, Ward, Delaney, Bailey, Achurch, Briscoe, Sutcliffe, Keinhorst, Singleton

Leeds will be desperate to go into the play-offs' on a high and I see them on top here so Hull FC 12 Leeds 22.

The third game on Friday sees local rivals Salford and Widnes face off in a fourth encounter between the sides this season.

Salford go into the game with two wins in their last five games and despite missing out on the play-offs they can finish as high as ninth or as low as 12th which would be some success after a pre-season hope of a top four finish fell away but to end on a high would be great for the Red Devils.

Widnes go into game with four wins in their last five games which has seen them reach the play-offs for the first time and their is the potential to finish as high as seventh which would setup a tough trip to Leeds next week but after a mixed season, the Vikings will be glad to have extended their season.

Last season's meeting at the AJ Bell Stadium saw Widnes win 24-4 as well as securing a 28-22 victory at the Magic Weekend and in this season's reverse meeting, Widnes claimed a 30-24 win putting them on course for a league double as well as securing wins in the Challenge Cup and Magic Weekend over the Red Devils.


Salford name an unchanged squad from last week's win over London while Widnes include Tom Gilmore, Grant Gore and Jack Owens as the Vikings utilise the depth of their squad in preparation for the play-offs. I

Salford Red Devils: Ashurst, Caton-Brown, Chase, Dixon, Evalds, Fages, D Griffin, J Griffin, Hansen, Johnson, Lee, Locke, Morley, Puletua, Sa’u, Tasi, Tomkins, Walne, Walton
Widnes Vikings: Ah Van, Cahill, Carberry, Dean, Flynn, Galea, Gilmore, Gore, Hanbury, Isa, Johnson, Joseph, Kavanagh, Leuluai, Marsh, Mellor, Owens, Phelps, White.

This could be a good game between to very strong attacks and I see a close score so Salford 22 Widnes 23.
 
Saturday sees two games with the key game likely to be Castleford's long trip to Perpignan to face Catalan as the Tigers could claim the League Leaders Shield should St Helens slip up on Friday night.

Catalan go into the game with just two wins from their last five games which saw them slip away from challenging the top six and come close to slipping out of the play-off picture as a whole but they know that no matter what they will face a long away trip in play-offs most likely to Huddersfield or Leeds.

Castleford go into the game with three wins in their last five games and surely in dreamland with the prospect of topping the table in their sights, a vision that would have been insane this time last year when they were battling at the wrong end of the table in 12th place. The Tigers will be more than happy with reaching the Challenge Cup final and a place in the top five but they will dare to dream of a trip to Old Trafford next month.

Last season's meeting in Perpignan saw the Dragons secure a 39-30 victory while in this season's reverse meeting, Castleford eased to a 32-6 win which gives them the chance to complete a league double over the Dragons who have won three of the last five meetings between the sides.



This will be a real cracker of a game given the potential prize for Tigers and that Catalan are strong at home so Catalan 24 Castleford 30. 

The second game of the afternoon is sure to be a memorable one as the relegated duo of London and Bradford meet in what will be the final Super League appearance for both sides until at least 2016 should either be promoted from the Championship at the first attempt. 

London go into the game with one win in their last five games ironically the same form as Leeds who were the Broncos only victims this season when they secured a superb win last month to eradicate a losing streak and with fellow strugglers Bradford in good form, London would love to end the season on a high.

Bradford go into the game with three wins in their last five which is amazing given that both Wigan and Leeds have won less in the same period and the boost in form seems to have come since their relegation was confirmed which is strange given that had this form appeared earlier in the season, they may have survived the drop to the Championship.

Last season's meeting in the capital saw Bradford claim a 46-20 win but London were victorious in the Challenge Cup meeting which formed part of their charge to the last-four of the competition while in this season's reverse meeting, the Bulls were successful with a 25-12 victory which puts them on course for a double over the Broncos.

This will be a good game between two sides building for next season and I will gamble with a win for the hosts so London 24 Bradford 20.

Last but by no means least is the Sunday afternoon game between Wakefield and Hull KR, two sides who narrowly missed out on the top eight but who will be eager to finish as high in the table as possible.

Wakefield go into the game with two wins in their last five games and alike their opponents they have the potential to finish as high as ninth or as low as 12th and given a superb run in the second third of the season, the Wildcats would surely rate a ninth placed finish as success.

Hull KR go into the game with just one win and a draw from their last five games which has seen them them miss out on the play-offs for the second time in their six Super League campaigns and after some superb results this season, ninth would be fine but not really success for a side with high ambitions.

Last season's meeting at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium saw Wakefield secure a 36-20 victory but in this season's reverse meeting, Hull KR stormed to a 44-6 win that puts them on course for a league double over the Wildcats.

This meeting has the prospect to be a close one with both vying for a top ten finish so Wakefield 20 Hull KR 30.

Top Four Battle Intensifies

The penultimate round of the Super League XIV season saw one of the burning issues confirmed as the final places in the top eight were secured by Catalan and Widnes but at the top just a couple of points separates second and sixth.

Wolves Deny Saints Success

Thursday night saw St Helens host Warrington with the Saints knowing anything other than a loss would see them secure the League Leaders Shield for the first time since 2008.

The hosts made a perfect start as they went ahead inside four minutes with a try from Shannon McDonnell and with regular kickers Luke Walsh and Mark Percival unavailable, Tom Makinson took charge of the duties and converted for a 6-0 lead.

Warrington responded with a try from Stefan Ratchford just four minutes later but in failing to convert his own effort the score moved to 6-4 before the game was halted in the 18th minute when Simon Grix suffered an horrific injury with the Wolves on the attack and he let the field to applause from both sets of fans.

The injury seemed to unnerve the hosts more than the visitors as Warrington went ahead in the next set as a dummy from Michael Monaghan saw him fool the Saints defence and cross for a try which Stefan Ratchford converted successfully for 10-6 .

Warrington took control with two further tries in the space of two minutes as Gareth O'Brien and Joel Monaghan crossed for tries that Stefan Ratchford converted successfully for a 22-6 lead which was reduced in the 31st minute as Willie Manu crossed for the hosts and with Tom Makinson converting the score was 22-12.

The visitors were wary of a Saints comeback in the second half so added an extra point just before the interval with Richie Myler kicking a drop goal for 23-12 but it was Myler himself who claimed the first try of the second half in the 47th minute but with no conversion the lead was still strong at 27-12.

Saints would have to wait for the League Leaders Shield as Warrington all but confirmed the win with a second try of the evening for Joel Monaghan in the 53rd minute and an effort from Ryan Atkins which was subject to a video review but was given with Stefan Ratchford and Gareth O'Brien converting both for 39-12.

Warrington looked to have reached the 40 point mark when Mick Higham crossed for a try in the 77th minute which was subject to a video review and was chalked off meaning a final score of 39-12. An incorrect result and failed prediction of 24-22 to St Helens.

Warriors Defeat Rhinos On Memorable Night


After suffering defeat to Widnes in the last away trip of 2014, Wigan returned to the DW Stadium for their penultimate game of the regular season as Challenge Cup Winners Leeds visited on Friday night.

The main event saw to late changes for Wigan with Joe Burgess and Jack Hughes replacing Anthony Gelling (illness) and Dom Manfredi (rib injury) but on what would hopefully be a joyful night for Wigan, Leeds looked to spoil the party early on.

Kallum Watkins took advantage of a good position from a second minute penalty to threaten the Wigan line but fell just short of claiming the first score of the night and Wigan responded with Matt Bowen going close twice in the space of five minutes but the scoreboard remained blank.

However in the 13th minute, Wigan made a breakthrough as a superb grubber kick from Blake Green found Joe Burgess who collected the ball and touched down for a well-worked try which was soon followed by a conversion from Matty Smith for a 6-0 lead.

Leeds looked to stage a rapid response but were forced to dropout from in goal before making a huge mistake after regaining possession as a pass from Zak Hardaker sailed nicely into the hands of Matty Smith who broke through the Rhinos defence and dashed clear to score a stunning try which he successfully converted for a 12-0 lead after 23 minutes.

Wigan breathed a sigh of relief with just three minutes left in the first half when a high kick from Kevin Sinfield found Ryan Hall who looked to cross for a textbook try but he offloaded to Josh Charnley which saw the move break down.

The Rhinos fell further behind just seconds before half-time as Wigan were awarded a penalty in a good position and time against them, elected to kick at goal and a powerful attempt from Matty Smith ensured a 14-0 half-time lead for the Warriors.

A frantic start to the first half saw both sides make errors but in the 44th minute, a set of chase and fumbles akin to a circus routine by the duo of Josh Charnley and Ryan Hall resulted in the Leeds winger picking out Liam Sutcliffe who raced over for a try with Kevin Sinfield converting for 14-6.

Both sides pushed for the next score with a number of grubber kicks on the attack being easily collected by the defences but Wigan looked to have scored just after the hour mark as Dan Sarginson seemed to have touched down but after a video review the try was disallowed .

Wigan did extend their lead in a style fitting of a ballroom rather than a rugby pitch as a clever spin and turn from Ben Flower saw him fool the Leeds defence and cross for a try and Matty Smith was on hand to convert well for a 20-6 lead with eight minutes remaining.

Leeds were unable to master a scoring response and in the final minute, Matty Smith rubbed salt in the Rhinos wounds by successful kicking a drop goal for a final score of 21-6. A correct result and a bit off with the prediction of 22-18.

Vikings Fightback Stuns Bulls

Widnes travelled to face Bradford knowing a win would guarantee their participation in the end of season play-offs and a top eight finish as a result and they made a perfect start with two tries in the first eight minutes through Paddy Flynn and despite neither being converted, Widnes led 8-0.

Bradford responded with a try from Tom Olbison in the 11th minute with Luke Gale converting for 8-6 before the Bulls went in front in the 24th minute with an effort from Chev Walker which Luke Gale converted successfully for 12-8, a lead that held firm into the interval.

A try-scoring double from Stefan Marsh in the space of three minutes saw Widnes regain the lead at 20-12 despite neither try being converted and Bradford's hopes of a win seemed to be slipping away after a good comeback.

Widnes wrapped up the win and their place in the top eight with three tries in the final ten minutes with Stefan Marsh completing his hat-trick ahead of Patrick Ah Van and Lloyd White crossing for tries with Cameron Phelps converting twice from three attempts for a final score of 32-12.  A correct result and not far off with the prediction of 28-16 to Widnes. 

Huddersfield Comeback To Deny Hull
  
Huddersfield kept up their hopes of a top four finish with a superb comeback at home to Hull who seem destined to finish outside of the top ten.

The visitors made the perfect start with Danny Houghton crossing for the first try of the afternoon with Jordan Rankin converting for 6-0 but Huddersfield hit back just five minutes later with an effort from Jake Connor but a failed conversion left Hull still ahead at 6-4.

Hull took control with two tries in as many minutes before the hour mark as Aaron Heremaia and Jamie Shaul registered efforts with Jordan Rankin converting both for a 18-4 lead but Huddersfield responded with two tries of their own before the interval as David Faiumu and Jake Connor crossed with Danny Brough converting once from two attempts for 18-14.

A trio of tries before the hour mark saw Huddersfield edge in front as efforts from Jodie Broughton and Brett Ferres came after Jordan Thompson put Hull further ahead at 22-14 which became 24-22 to the hosts after Brough's single conversion.

Huddersfield took control with two tries in four minutes after the hour mark as Anthony Mullally and Jermaine McGillvary crossed for the Giants with Danny Brough converting once from two attempts for 34-22.

Hull reduced the deficit with eight minutes to go as Gareth Ellis crossed for a try that with Jordan Rankin converting moved the score to 34-28 but Huddersfield confirmed the win with just two minutes to go as Jodie Broughton scored his second try of the afternoon to seal a 38-28 victory. A correct result and quite close with the prediction of 36-20 to Huddersfield.

Dragons Deny Robins In Play-off Battle

Catalan made the long trip to face Hull KR knowing a win would confirm a top eight finish and end the Robins chances of a play-off place for only the second time in six seasons.
  
The hosts made a good start as they went ahead inside six minutes with a try from Liam Salter which Travis Burns successfully converted for 6-0 but Catalan hit back with a try from Michael Oldfield in the 14th minute with Thomas Bosc converting to level the score at 6-6.

Michael Oldfield struck again on the half-hour mark and with Thomas Bosc converting, Catalan went 12-6 in front but were pegged back with four minutes left of the first half as Macauley Hallett crossed for the hosts but with no conversion, Catalan led 12-10 into the interval.

The Robins went ahead eight minutes into the second half as Jason Chan crossed but a missed conversion attempt meant a slim lead at 14-12 but Sam Williams crossed for a try that put the Dragons back in front in the 54th minute and with Thomas Bosc converting, they led 18-14.

However, there was no response from the Robins and three tries in the final ten minutes saw Catalan secure a comfortable victory and confirm a top eight finish as Michael Oldfield completed his hat-trick before Sam Williams' second effort of the afternoon and Morgan Escaré's late effort with Thomas Bosc converting just the latter for a 32-14 win. An incorrect result and failed prediction of 28-20 to Hull KR.

Griffin Stars For Red Devils

London travelled up to face Salford in a game between two sides whose season will end next week but for Salford there is the chance to finish as high as ninth.

The hosts went ahead in the seventh minute with an effort from Tommy Lee who struck against his former club with Josh Griffin converting for 6-0 which became 12-0 when Jordan Walne crossed for Salford in the 22nd minute with Josh Griffin on hand to convert again.

London did respond with a try from Jordan Atkins but a failed conversion attempt from Josh Drinkwater meant a score of 12-4 which was 30-4 at the interval as the hosts ran in three tries in the last ten minutes of the first half as Josh Griffin crossed ahead of efforts for Greg Johnson and Logan Tomkins with Josh Griffin himself converting all three.

London made the better start to the second half with Illiess Macani crossing for the Broncos but another failed conversion from Josh Drinkwater left the score at 30-8 but a try from Jason Walton just five minutes later pushed Salford to 36-8 with Josh Griffin converting.

Two tries from Josh Griffin with the latter his hat-trick try sandwiched an second effort of the afternoon for Greg Johnson with Josh Griffin converting twice from three attempts for 52-8 but London did stage a mini fight back with three unanswered tries.

Matt Cook, Josh Drinkwater and Nick Slyney all crossed with Josh Drinkwater converting all three for a 52-26 scoreline but Salford had the last say in the final minute as Greg Johnson completed his hat-trick and Josh Griffin added the conversion for a personal tally of 30 points at 58-26. 

Castleford Keep Up Title Hopes

After St Helens failed to claim the League Leaders Shield on Friday night, Castleford hosted neighbours Wakefield knowing a win would keep up their dream of finishing top of the Super League.

The Tigers made a superb start with two tries in the first 15 minutes from Luke Dorn and James Clare putting them 12-0 in front after Marc Sneyd added two conversion but the visitors fell even further behind as Castleford posted two tries in the space of five minutes.

James Clare crossed for his second try of the game ahead of an effort from Kirk Dixon with Marc Sneyd converting just the former but Wakefield fought back with two tries in the final five minutes of the half with Lee Gimour and Chris Riley crossing the Tigers line followed by a solitary conversion from Paul Sykes for 22-10.

Castleford increased their lead to 16 points in the 63rd minute as Jake Webster crossed for a try and despite Marc Sneyd failing to convert, the Tigers were in firm control but suffered fightback from the Wildcats who ran in two tries in the final 12 minutes to set up a tense finish.

Scott Anderson crossed in the 68th minute with Paul Sykes converting and the final score of the afternoon came for Richard Owen who crossed in the 71st minute with Paul Sykes converting for a final score of 26-22. A correct result and close with the 30-20 prediction.

Rhinos End Young Warriors Streak

After a run of eight consecutive victories, Wigan's U19s hosted Leeds U19's in the final round of the regular season and though both sides knew they would finish third and fourth whatever the result, the game was akin to a play-off eliminator.

Leeds went ahead in the 17th minute with a try from Tom Brierley which was followed by a successful conversion from Jordan Lilley for a 6-0 lead that just eight minutes later became 12-0 when Josh Walters crossed for a try that was successfully converted by Jordan Lilley.

The Rhinos increased their lead to 13-0 with Jordan Lilley kicking a drop goal with eight minutes left in the half and Wigan needed a good fightback to stay in the game and laid the foundations just three minutes later as Rob Lever raced clear to score the Warriors' first try of the afternoon with Nick Gregson unable to convert at 13-4.

Leeds claimed the first score of the second half as Nathan Barker crossed for a try in the 53rd minute with Jordan Lilley converting for a 19-4 lead before Wigan reduced the arrears with a try from Liam Forsyth which was followed by a failed conversion attempt from Nick Gregson at 19-8.

Wigan scored twice in the space of six minutes to close the gap to 19-18 as Oliver Gildart crossed ahead of a second try of the game for Rob Lever with Nick Gregson converting once from two attempts.

A tense ending saw Leeds go down to 12 men as Ben Frankland was sent to the sin-bin in the 78th minute and Wigan had the chance to claim a draw when they were in a good position for a drop goal in the final minute but chose to go for the win which saw them fail to cross for a try as Leeds held on for the win. 

Warriors Defeat Rhinos On Memorable Night

After suffering defeat to Widnes in the last away trip of 2014, Wigan returned to the DW Stadium for their penultimate game of the regular season as Challenge Cup Winners Leeds visited on Friday night.

In what was marketed as 'The Big One 5', a superb night of entertainment included a stellar performance from Carolynne Poole and James Walsh which was spearheaded by a legends game between the Joining Jack and Sporting Prints teams with the Joining Jack legends securing a 16-4 victory.

Wigan legends Jason Robinson and Andy Farrell each crossed for a try with Farrell converting both before Brad Hepi responded for the visitors but the win was secure when Andy Craig scored late on and despite Farrell's missed conversion attempt, the JJ legends secured a great win.

The main event saw to late changes for Wigan with Joe Burgess and Jack Hughes replacing Anthony Gelling (illness) and Dom Manfredi (rib injury) but on what would hopefully be a joyful night for Wigan, Leeds looked to spoil the party early on.

Kallum Watkins took advantage of a good position from a second minute penalty to threaten the Wigan line but fell just short of claiming the first score of the night and Wigan responded with Matt Bowen going close twice in the space of five minutes but the scoreboard remained blank.

However in the 13th minute, Wigan made a breakthrough as a superb grubber kick from Blake Green found Joe Burgess who collected the ball and touched down for a well-worked try which was soon followed by a conversion from Matty Smith for a 6-0 lead.

Leeds looked to stage a rapid response but were forced to dropout from in goal before making a huge mistake after regaining possession as a pass from Zak Hardaker sailed nicely into the hands of Matty Smith who broke through the Rhinos defence and dashed clear to score a stunning try which he successfully converted for a 12-0 lead after 23 minutes.

Wigan breathed a sigh of relief with just three minutes left in the first half when a high kick from Kevin Sinfield found Ryan Hall who looked to cross for a textbook try but he offloaded to Josh Charnley which saw the move break down.

The Rhinos fell further behind just seconds before half-time as Wigan were awarded a penalty in a good position and time against them, elected to kick at goal and a powerful attempt from Matty Smith ensured a 14-0 half-time lead for the Warriors.

A frantic start to the first half saw both sides make errors but in the 44th minute, a set of chase and fumbles akin to a circus routine by the duo of Josh Charnley and Ryan Hall resulted in the Leeds winger picking out Liam Sutcliffe who raced over for a try with Kevin Sinfield converting for 14-6.

Both sides pushed for the next score with a number of grubber kicks on the attack being easily collected by the defences but Wigan looked to have scored just after the hour mark as Dan Sarginson seemed to have touched down but after a video review the try was disallowed .

Wigan did extend their lead in a style fitting of a ballroom rather than a rugby pitch as a clever spin and turn from Ben Flower saw him fool the Leeds defence and cross for a try and Matty Smith was on hand to convert well for a 20-6 lead with eight minutes remaining.

Leeds were unable to master a scoring response and in the final minute, Matty Smith rubbed salt in the Rhinos wounds by successful kicking a drop goal for a final score of 21-6.

Super League Round 26 Preview

On the day that a new WCC series has been announced, it feels strange to be previewing the penultimate round of the 2014 Super League given that this year's WCC doesn't feel that long ago despite taking place back in February.

This weekend's seven games feature three that took place in May's Magic Weekend programme and the excitement of the season continues with the League Leaders Shield, the top four and top eight still unconfirmed.

Tonight sees a huge clash at Langtree Park between St Helens and Warrington with the Saints knowing a win will see them claim the League Leaders Shield for the first time since 2008.

The current table toppers go into the tie on the back of a narrow win over Leeds which was their fourth win in their last five games and with only Castleford able to prevent them topping the end of season standings the LLS does seem bound for a return to St Helens.

Warrington's recent form is mixed with just two wins and a draw from their last five games including a draw against Huddersfield in the previous round but with second to sixth separated by just a single point, the pressure is on especially with a tough trip to Wigan awaiting them next week.

Last season's meeting at Langtree Park saw the Wolves seal a 29-16 win as one of two wins from three which saw a 48-22 win at the Magic Weekend but this season's reverse meeting saw St Helens claim a 38-8 win before suffering a 41-24 loss at the Magic Weekend so a league double is still on the cards.

Saints are without Mark Percival due to concussion with Gary Wheeler included in the 19-man squad while Warrington include Roy Asotasi in place of Anthony England.


St Helens: Makinson, Turner, Jones, Swift, Hohaia, Masoe, Roby, McCarthy-Scarsbrook, Soliola, Manu, Laffranchi, Flanagan, Amor, Wellens, Walmsley, Wheeler, Dawson, Richards, McDonnell.

Warrington Wolves: Asotasi, Atkins, Currie, R. Evans, Grix, Harrison, Higham, Hill, Laithwaite, J. Monaghan, M. Monaghan, Myler, O'Brien, Ormsby, Ratchford, Russell, Waterhouse, Westwood, Wood.

This will be a really close game but I think St Helens will edge a win so St Helens 24 Warrington 22.

Strangely, there is only one Friday night game but what a huge game it is as Wigan host Leeds in a battle between the reigning Super League and Challenge Cup winners.

Wigan go into the game with just two wins in their last four games after a 24-10 loss against Widnes in the previous round and with Warrington visiting the DW Stadium next week, the Warriors need a huge switch in form if they are to retain their Super League title.

Leeds may have won the Challenge Cup a fortnight ago but their league form is woeful with three successive losses forming a run of just one win in their last five games. The Rhinos sit sixth but know a win could see them go second in the table.

Last season's league meeting at the DW saw Leeds secure a 20-6 win in the final round of the regular season but the Warriors bounced back with a 22-12 win in the play-offs on their way to winning the Grand Final. This season's reverse meeting saw Leeds triumph 28-12 at Headingley but that was followed by a 18-14 loss two weeks later at the Magic Weekend so the Rhinos are on course to secure a league double over the Warriors.

Wigan include Liam Farrell after he was found not guilty of a Grade B offence against Widnes but Iain Thornley misses out after suffering an injury in training with Matt Bowen returning alongside Ben Flower who replaces Scott Taylor. Leeds are without the suspended Joel Moon who is replaced by Jimmy Keinhorst.


Wigan Warriors: Bateman, Bowen, Charnley, Clubb, Crosby, Dudson, Farrell, Flower, Gelling, Green, Hughes, Manfredi, McIlorum, O'Loughlin, Pettybourne, Powell, Sarginson, Smith, J Tomkins.
Leeds Rhinos : Hardaker, Watkins, Hall, McGuire, Burrow, Leuluai, Aiton, Peacock, Jones-Buchanan, Ablett, Sinfield, Ward, Delaney, Bailey, Kirke, Achurch, T Briscoe, Sutcliffe, Keinhorst.

This will be a really close game but I see Wigan bouncing back and edging a win so Wigan 22 Leeds 18. 

The remaining five games of the round all take place on Sunday with the fight for eight place making Catalan's trip to face Hull KR an important one with the Dragons still not safe with just a four point lead over the Robins.

Hull KR go into the game on the back of a humiliating 28-0 defeat in the Hull derby and with just one win in their last five games, a win is desperately needed to have any chance of ending the season on a high and end the worst outcome of finishing 12th.

Catalan make the long trip to Yorkshire on the back of a comfortable win over London but the victory was only their second in five games which has seen them slip from challenging for a place in the top six to the prospect of slipping out of the top eight.

Last season's meeting at Craven Park saw the Dragons secure a 32-24 victory with the reverse meeting earlier this season resulting in a similar outcome as they triumphed 37-24 and the omens are in their favour having won four of the last five meetings including the last three at Craven Park.

Catalan have been poor on their travels this season and I see this continuing so Hull KR 28 Catalan 20.

Aside from the aforementioned duo, Widnes are the only other side in contention for the top eight and they will look to further their push when they travel to face relegated Bradford.

The Bulls have done well since the relegation was confirmed and have won three of their last five games which will serve them well in preparation for next season's Championship campaign and a win would see them reach eight for the season just one shy of Hull and Salford.

Widnes have a strange recent run of form with three wins in their last five game but with the two losses in games two and four meaning the run of form would suggest a loss on Sunday something that could dent what has been a good season for the Vikings made better with a win over Wigan in the previous round.

Last season's meeting at Odsal saw the Vikings claim a 32-28 win with this season's reverse meeting seeing them edge a tight game with a 22-18 win which puts them on course for a league double over the Bulls.

After watching Widnes first hand last week, I see them coming out on top on Sunday so Bradford 16 Widnes 28.

The unpredictability at the top recently has seen Huddersfield go sitting adrift in sixth to sit fourth and just one point off second place as they welcome Hull FC to the John Smith's Stadium.

Huddersfield have taken advantage of their rivals problems with four wins and a draw in their last five games including salvaging a last-gasp point at Warrington having blown a 23-6 lead to go on to draw 24-24. The Giants know that a retention of the League Leaders Shield is now impossible but to finish first and second in adjoining seasons would be a success.

Hull FC travel across Yorkshire in mixed form as despite cruising to a 38-0 derby win, the victory was only their second in their last five games and with the hopes of a top eight finish now over, there is just the league placings to play for for the Airlie Birds.

Last season's league meeting in Huddersfield saw the Giants secure a 24-10 victory before demolishing the visitors 76-18 in the end of season play-offs a result that ended Peter Gentle tenure at the KC Stadium.

This one I see being a comfortable night for the Giants so Huddersfield 36 Hull 20.

A local Yorkshire derby between Castleford and Wakefield could be the most important between the sides for a long time given that both still have a lot to play for this season.

Castleford bounced back from defeat at Wembley to secure a win over Bradford which was their second win in their last five games which have also seen two draws as they continue what has been a superb season in comparison to the struggles of 2013.

Wakefield make the short trip across town in mixed form with two wins in their last five games but with the chance to reach the top eight and end of season play-offs still alight, they will be keen to boost their hopes while at the same time denting their neighbours chances of a top four finish.

Last season's meeting at the Jungle saw Wakefield secure a 37-16 win in a match abandoned after 73 minutes due to a fire scare but the Tigers secured a 49-24 win at the Magic Weekend and replicated that form in this season's reverse meeting with a 43-20 win before securing a 50-12 win at the Magic Weekend.

This will be a cracker of a derby but I see the Tigers sealing a win so Castleford 30 Wakefield 22.

The final game of the round is the only one where neither side can affect the top eight places as Salford host relegated London.

Salford after being tipped by some as favourites to win the title this year go into the game with just two wins from their last five games and as a result their only success this season would be finishing ninth the Red Devils currently six points away from the hallowed top eight.

London know that they will end the season bottom of the league and with a maximum of three wins having won just once in their last five games, with the victory over Leeds their only positive result this season ans they come off the back of a heavy loss to Catalan in the previous round.

Last season's meeting in Salford saw London seal a 38-4 win one which they would love to repeat but they will hope to avoid a repeat of this season's reverse meeting that saw them suffer a 44-18 loss.

This game on paper sees a firm win for the Red Devils but I see it being fairly close so Salford 20 London 16.

Young Warriors Comeback Stuns Red Devils

Ahead of this weekend's huge clash at home to Leeds, Wigan U19's played host to Salford U19's on Tuesday night in a re-arranged fixture from last month which was postponed due to mass illness in the Red Devils squad.

Wigan gave a second 19's start of the season to prolific first-team star Joe Burgess and got off to a superb start with two tries inside nine minutes with Kyle Shelford crossing ahead of a run and try from Jake Moore with Jake Shorrocks converting the first of the two efforts for a 10-0 lead.

The lead should have increased in the 14th minute when Joe Burgess virtually gifted a try to Jack Higginson only for the Warriors centre to knock on in attempting to score under the posts. Salford utilised the advantage gained from the mistake to race down the other end and score with a try from Edwin Okanga-Ajararig with Tyler Whittaker converting for 10-6.

Salford seemed to have the momentum as they crossed for a second try in the 20th minute as Johnny Scott crossed and with Tyler Whittaker converting, they went into the lead at 12-10 before extending their lead just five minutes later with an effort from Henry Hadfield successfully converted by Tyler Whittaker for 18-10.

Wigan responded well and reduced the deficit with a try from Jack Higginson five minutes before half time and a change in the kicking duties saw Ryan Houghton fail to convert at 18-14 but the hosts suffered an early blow in the second half as Danny Lomax crossed for a try in the 42nd minute and with Tyler Whittaker converting for 24-14, Wigan needed to score next to keep up their hopes of a win.

The Warriors did score next and in fact scored three times in the space of four minutes to regain the lead, Liam Forsyth, Gabriel Fell and Liam Marshall all crossed for tries with Ryan Houghton converting the first and Nick Gregson converting the other two for a 32-24 lead.

Salford's hopes of staging a comeback of their own suffered a blow in the 67th minute when a superb run and dummy from Macauley Davies saw him cross for Wigan's seventh try of the evening and with Nick Gregson converting for a third time in a row, Wigan led 38-24 and held on to secure the win and an eight consecutive victory.

Saints Go Clear At The Top

The most exciting Super League season for a long time continues to be unpredictable as three shock results in round 25 have ensured that the top four and eight still have not been confirmed with just two rounds remaining.

Last Gasp Brough Denies Wolves

Thursday night saw a huge clash in the race for the top four as Huddersfield travelled across the Pennines to face Warrington with second place awaiting the winners.

A mixed start from both sides saw Warrington open the scoring in the 18th minute when Gareth O'Brien crossed for a try and with first-choice kicker Chris Bridge sidelined through injury, O'Brien stepped up to convert his own try for a 6-0 lead.

The Giants responded well and drew level inside five minutes as Chris Bailey crossed for a try which Danny Brough converted successfully before Huddersfield went in front in the 27th minute when Ukuma Ta'ai crossed for a try with Danny Brough duly converting for a 12-6 lead.

Huddersfield completed a trio of tries in the 31st minute when Shaun Lunt scored a try that Danny Brough converted for 18-6 and Brough added a drop goal just before the hooter for 19-6 lead at the interval.

Warrington's will to respond early in the second half failed to pay off as Jodie Broughton crossed for the visitors with Danny Brough failing to convert for the first time all evening as Huddersfield led 23-6 and were in total control.

However, Warrington staged a superb fightback with three tries in the space of ten minutes as the Huddersfield defence imploded to let in tries from Ryan Atkins and a double from Ben Harrison with Gareth O'Brien converting all three to put them in front at 24-23.

Warrington looked to have completed a stunning comeback but their joy was soured in the final seconds as Danny Brough scored his second drop goal of the game to secure a last-gasp point for the Giants at 24-24. An incorrect result and wide prediction of 30-24.


Saints Snatch Victory From Rhinos

Friday night's main game saw Challenge Cup winners Leeds host current table toppers St Helens with the visitors looking to go five points clear at the top.

The visitors went ahead in the fifth minute when Mark Percival successfully converted a penalty for 2-0 but Leeds responded just six minutes later as Kevin Sinfield converted a penalty for 2-2 in what would surely be a tight game.

Leeds' charge suffered a blow when Joel Moon was dismissed after a heavy tackle on Mark Percival with the Saints man leaving the field with concussion but despite being a man down, Leeds went ahead as Sinfield converted a second penalty for a 4-2 lead in the 28th minute.

The extra man seemed to be a hindrance for St Helens as Leeds extended their lead on the half-hour as Liam Sutcliffe crossed for a try which Kevin Sinfield duly converted for 10-2 before the Rhinos captain converted his third penalty of the evening just before half-time for 12-2 at the interval.

St Helens took until the 63rd minute to reduce the deficit as Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook crossed for their first try of the game with a failed conversion resulting in a 12-6 score that became 12-12 with ten minutes to go when James Roby crossed for a try that Tommy Makinson converted successfully.

The visitors completed a superb comeback by going in front with five minutes to go when Lance Hohaia kicked over a drop goal to seal a narrow 13-12 win. An incorrect result and wide prediction of 22-20.

Airlie Birds Secure Derby Nilling

Hull FC gained sweet revenge for their derby defeats to fierce rivals Hull KR with a 28-0 win that dented the Robins play-off hopes.

The hosts went ahead inside ten minutes as Fetuli Talanoa crossed for the opening try but a failed conversion meant a slim 4-0 lead that increased to 10-0 just nine minutes later when Setaimata Sa scored a try that Jordan Rankin converted successfully.

Jordan Rankin successfully converted a penalty just before half-time for a 12-0 lead that jumped to 22-0 before the hour mark after tries from Tom Lineham and Jordan Thompson with Jordan Rankin converting once from two attempts.

Hull KR's miserable night came to an end with Tom Lineham's second try of the evening which Jordan Rankin converted for a comfortable 28-0 victory that scores some bragging rights for the Airlie Birds after two defeats to their rivals earlier this season. An incorrect result and wide prediction of 18-26.

Valiant Vikings Punish Wasteful Warriors

Wigan's away woes in 2014 extended tonight as they fell to a 14 point defeat away to Widnes.

The Warriors included the fit again duo of Michael McIlorum and Iain Thonrley as they looked to close the gap on table toppers St Helens. 

A mixed start from both sides saw Widnes open the scoring in the sixth minute when a superb run from Patrick Ah Van saw him race clear down the wing for a try in the corner with Danny Tickle converting for a 6-0 lead. 

Wigan's 'penalty machine' of 2014 lived up to his past as GIl Dudson conceded a penalty close to his own line and Danny Tickle duly converted for 8-0.

Widnes reached double figures inside 13 minutes as In great space on the wing, Paddy Flynn crossed for an easy try and with Danny Tickle converting for 14-0, Wigan needed the next score to stay in the game. 

Wigan looked to respond but just metres from the Widnes line, Dan Sarginson lost the ball under a heavy tackle. Widnes blew a great chance at the other end as an aerial pass to the wing flew through the grasp of Patricl Ah Van with the try line in sight. 

A succession of penalties put Wigan in a good position and coupled with a run from Sean O'Loughlin, a nice set ended  with Dom Manfredi crossing for a try but a tough angle saw Matty Smith unable to convert at 14-4.

The try seemed to ignite the Warriors charge as they crossed again just three minutes later as a pinpoint kick from Blake Green glided into the arms of Josh Charnley who touched down for a fine try. However, the score remained 14-10 as Matty Smith was unable to convert. 

Wigan looked to have levelled just before half-time as Josh Charnley went over but was held up in goal so 14-10 at the interval.

However, Wigan suffered a blow in only the third minute of the second half when Patrick Ah Van controversially scored his second try as he did so after shoving a Warriors defended out of the way. Danny Tickle converted and Widnes led 20-10. 

Wigan went down to 12 as a heavy tackle from Liam Farrell floored kicker Joe Mellor with the Wigan forward sent to the sin-bin. 

Widnes advanced and were awarded another penalty which Danny TIckle converted for 22-10 and despite 30 minutes remaining, Wigan needed a 'Lazarus' type of comeback to avoid defeat. 

Another penalty for Widnes and another successful convaerion as the lead moved to 24-10.

Wigan tried to respond but to no avail as they slipped to their fifth away defeat of the season and will be glad to be at home for the final two games as Leeds and Warrington visit the DW Stadium. An incorrect and wide prediction of 16-36.


Escaré Treble Defeats Broncos

After registering their first win of the season against Leeds a fortnight ago, London failed to make it back-to-back wins when they made the trip to Perpignan to face Catalan.

Catalan went ahead inside five minutes as Vincent Duport crossed for the opening try which Thomas Bosc converted successfully for 6-0 which soon became 10-0 when Morgan Escaré scored in the 13th minute but Thomas Bosc's failure to convert left the score at 10-0.

London fell further behind when Morgan Escaré crossed for his second score of the evening in the 21st minute with Thomas Bosc converting for 16-0 before Ben Pomeroy crossed for a try just before the half-hour mark which Thomas Bosc converted for a 22-0 lead.

London staged a superb fightback against Leeds but need a miracle to stem the Catalan charge after Daryl Millard crossed for a try in the 33rd minute that Thomas Bosc converted before Morgan Escaré completed his hat-trick and joined Tommy Makinson and Joel Monaghan on 24 tries for the season just before half-time with Thomas Bosc setting up a 34-0 lead.

London scored their first try of the game in the 55th minute when Kieran Dixon crossed for a try but Josh Drinkwater was unable to convert with the score at 34-4 but Catalan sealed the victory with two tries in four minutes from Zeb Taia and Daryl Millard who claimed his second try of the evening with Thomas Bosc converting both for a personal points tally of 14 in a 46-4 win. A correct result but wide prediction of 24-16.

Wakefield Thrash Red Devils

Wakefield kept up their hopes of sealing a place in the top eight with a comfortable win over Salford who after being tipped for success in 2014 will not feature in the end of the season play-offs.

The Wildcats raced into a 16-0 lead inside 22 minute with a trio of tries from Andy Raleigh, Danny Washbrook and Chris Riley with Paul Sykes converting twice from three attempts and the lead remained intact into the half-time interval.

Salford reduced the deficit eight minutes into the second half with a try from Harrison Hansen which Kevin Locke converted for 16-6 but Wakefield took control with three tries in the space of 13 minutes with Dean Collis, Ali Lauititi and Richard Owen crossing with Paul Sykes converting twice from three attempts to stretch the lead to 32-6.

Salford were unable to reduce the deficit and Wakefield advanced through the 40 point mark with two late tries from Pita Godinet and Richard Owen's second effort of the afternoon with Paul Sykes converting the former but not the latter as the Wildcats secured a 42-6 win. An incorrect result and wide prediction of 22-22.

Bulls Suffer Defeat Despite Gaskell Treble

Castleford bounced back from their Challenge Cup final defeat to keep up their hopes of claiming the League Leaders Shield with a win over Bradford.

The hosts went ahead inside five minutes with a try from Andy Lynch which Marc Sneyd converted successfully for 6-0 before James Clare crossed nine minutes later with Marc Sneyd duly converting for a 12-0 lead.

Luke Dorn crossed for the Tigers third effort of the afternoon on the half-hour mark with Marc Sneyd converting for 18-0 but Bradford responded with a try from Lee Gaskell in the 34th minute with Luke Gale converting for 18-6.

Michael Shenton crossed for the hosts right on half-time with Marc Sneyd converting to regain an 18 point lead at 24-6 into the interval but two tries in the first quarter of the second half from Lee Gaskell who completed his hat-trick gave the Bulls hope with Luke Gale converting both for 24-18.

However, Castleford ended the Bulls comeback in the 64th minute when Daryl Clark continued his fine scoring form in 2014 with a try that Marc Sneyd converted or 30-18 before Marc Sneyd put the gloss on the win with a minute to go with a penalty goal to secure a 32-18 victory.