Leeds Rhinos vs Castleford Tigers
Note: since publication, Castleford Tigers have been replaced by Hull FC as Leeds Rhinos opponents.
Venue: Emerald Headingley
Kick-off: Thursday 8th October, 7.45pm
Head-to-Head
Last Five Results: Castleford 10-18 Leeds (05/07/19), Leeds 8-30 Castleford (16/05/19), Leeds 21-20 Castleford (28/03/19), Castleford 42-10 Leeds (08/07/18), Leeds 24-25 Castleford (23/03/18)
Preview
A Yorkshire derby between Leeds and Castleford concludes Thursday night’s action at Headingley, with Cas desperate to find some late season form and the Rhinos likely to have an eye on next weekend’s Challenge Cup final.
The Rhinos have named a strong squad as they look to secure a top-four finish in Super League, making one change from the squad that beat Wigan in the Challenge Cup with Bodene Thompson replacing Alex Mellor after picking up a slight knock against the Warriors.
The Tigers make three changes to the side narrowly beaten by Hull FC with Derrell Olpherts, Alex Foster and Calum Turner all returning. That means Jake Trueman, George Griffin and Brad Graham sit out.
Prediction
Despite having a Cup final to prepare for next weekend, Richard Agar knows his side can’t afford to drop points in the league if they are to secure a top-four finish. The Rhinos looked solid in their defeat of Wigan and should come out on top in this one with Castleford badly out of form, having won just once in their last eight matches.
