Leeds Rhinos vs Catalans Dragons
Venue: Emerald Headingley
Kick-off: Wednesday 30th September, 6pm
Head-to-Head
Last Five Results: Leeds 48-8 Catalans (09/08/19), Leeds 31-12 Catalans (30/06/19), Catalans 26-22 Leeds (23/03/19), Leeds 25-28 Catalans (20/06/18), Catalans 33-20 Leeds (26/05/18)
Preview
This is a huge game in the race for a top-four finish with both Leeds and Catalans appearing the two sides best placed to clinch the final play-off spot outside of the top three. The Rhinos have home advantage at Headingley but will have an eye on their Challenge Cup semi-final this weekend.
Leeds have made 15 changes to their squad with Jack Walker, Brad Dwyer, Bodene Thompson, Konrad Hurrell and Alex Sutcliffe all returning. Amongst those rested are Tom Briscoe, Harry Newman, Ash Handley, Robert Lui, Luke Gale, Kruise Leeming, Rhyse Martin and Richie Myler.
The Dragons have named an unchanged 21-man squad following their defeat to Warrington last time out with the likes of Israel Folau, James Maloney and Sam Tomkins all set to feature at Headingley.
Prediction
It’s a big week for Leeds head coach Richard Agar as he tries to juggle the Rhinos league and cup commitments who look set to suffer from their fixture congestion on Wednesday evening. Catalans may have lost their last three matches but should take advantage of a much-weakened Rhinos squad to maintain their push for a top-four finish.
