Wigan are in crisis while there’s a top four clash and plenty more this week. Here are my predictions…
Wakefield Trinity vs Wigan Warriors (Thu, 7:45pm)
The coach has announced his departure, two key players have been involved in a disgusting video that led to the suspension of one of them, and they have lost the last two games without scoring a point in 145 minutes of rugby.
How quickly things have changed at Wigan. They are in crisis and this game might just be the most important one they play all season.
Wakefield had a week off after the crucial win at Widnes a fortnight ago, but they haven’t impressed for a while and Wigan should still fancy their chances. They need to win, and I think they will.
Prediction: Wakefield Trinity 12-28 Wigan Warriors
Hull FC vs Salford Red Devils (Fri, 7:45pm)
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Hull FC’s spirit was impressive in the narrow defeat at St Helens in the Cup, and with key players slowly coming back I think they still have a great chance of making the top four.
Salford have lost their last five games, with the recent defeats to the sides they are fighting with for eighth spot, Catalans and Huddersfield, particularly damaging.
They have had 14 days since their last game compared to Hull’s five, and I think that could be a factor after such a draining Challenge Cup tie but Hull are still unbeaten at home and there is enough quality to extend that run.
Prediction: Hull FC 26-16 Salford Red Devils
Leeds Rhinos vs Huddersfield Giants (Fri, 7:45pm)
Leeds progressed in the Challenge Cup and, helped by the early red card, they found the confidence that they have been lacking this season.
In contrast, Huddersfield were pretty awful in their exit, and Simon Woolford desperately needs a response from a side that had been looking so positive in previous weeks.
They tend to get themselves up for facing the Rhinos and we’ll certainly see some improvement, but Leeds should win comfortably.
Prediction: Leeds Rhinos 36-10 Huddersfield Giants
Read the predictions for the big clash between Warrington and Castleford on page 2…
