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| WORLD AT HIS FEET: Sam Tomkins can showcase his talents tonight |
Wigan Warriors v St George Illawarra Dragons
WIGAN WARRIORS are fighting to be crowned World Club champions against NRL winners St George Illawarra Dragons this weekend and Michael Maguire’s men will take some stopping at evens with William Hill.
After English dominance in this event for five successive years, Manly bucked that trend by beating Leeds in 2009 and Melbourne Storm repeated the trick at Elland Road 12 months ago. The strength of the NRL and Aussie stronghold on the international scene seals the Dragons as marginal favourites for this contest – 4-5 with Hills.
However, there is plenty to suggest punters should be backing the Cherry and Whites. Firstly, home advantage, as always, goes to the English team and, in Wigan’s case, that means a sell-out partisan crowd at their very own DW Stadium.
Secondly, the Dragons, unlike Manly and Melbourne before them, have opted not to play a warm-up game on these shores – a fatal error in my book. Wigan will hit the ground battle hardened after a full pre-season and two Super League matches already under their belts.
In contrast, the NRL has yet to kick-off and it is a serious lack of respect on Illwarra’s part to head into this clash without any match preparation.
St George’s legendary coach Wayne Bennett has flown home on compassionate grounds, which is a massive blow to the visitors.
Maguire’s men blew a 16-0 lead to draw with St Helens in their season opener, but cut through the Bulls with ominous ease at Odsal last week and are just too good to turn down at Hills’ double-your-money price.
St George’s man to watch out for is 23-year-old full-back Darius Boyd. A prodigious talent, equally skilled on the wing or at centre, Boyd adds a creative touch to what is largely a well disciplined and workmanlike outfit.
His opposite number, Sam Tomkins, is the best talent in the British game and I expect Super League’s young player of the year to deliver.
A Grand Final try suggests he is the man for the big occassion and, at 12-1 (Hills) for the first try, his timely support play and notorious sidestep could well reward punters.
Winner: Wigan (Evens William Hill)
Score Tip: Wigan to win by 13+ points (4-1 bet365)
First Tryscorer: Sam Tomkins (12-1 William Hill)
