Wigan add Hock to their armoury for Giant clash
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| BACK TO IMPRESS: Gareth Hock will want to make up for lost time |
THE return of Gareth Hock from his two-year drugs ban adds spice to what is already a mouthwatering Super League contest.
The 27-year-old is set to be back on the Wigan bench just 48 hours after the expiry of his high-profile ban, and all eyes will be on how Hock copes after such a lengthy absence.
Hock was banned in June 2009 after testing positive for cocaine, but began training two months ago after getting the green light from the RFL, so will not be ridiculously far off the pace.
Before his enforced spell on the sidelines, Hock had established himself as one of the most destructive second-rowers in the game.
An explosive tackle-buster, always looking for the offload, Hock appeared destined to play a leading role for both club and country.
And who is to say that the Warriors youth academy product will not now live up to his former billing?
Whether Hock can make an impact from the interchange bench against the Giants remains to be seen, but I do expect the champions to wrap up another two points.
Third-placed Wigan are a point behind Huddersfield in second, having played one game less and are 3-10 with Betfred to seal the points that will see them leapfrog their opponents.
Currently just one point off leaders Warrington, it’s fair to say that Wigan are not struggling in the defence of their crown, but Hock can certainly add a new dimension to their game.
There is not one Wigan name in the top 25 players for offloads this season, but expect plenty when Hock is on the field.
Wigan’s game is all about territory and great movement with ball in hand. Wigan’s man in possession enjoys far more options than his opposite number. The Giants rely on a great defence, strong kicking game and the creative flair of Kevin Brown.
But, with Danny Brough out injured, I expect the Giants to fall just short. Nathan Brown’s men have made the second most attacking kicks this term and are third in the rankings for kicks in general play.
Scott Grix is a quality deputy for Brough, but against Wigan you need your top man pulling the strings. I’m tipping a home win by 1-12 points, priced at 11-5 with Stan James.
As for the first tryscorer market, George Carmont stands out at 12-1 (Hills), while Hock is 25-1 (Hills) to grab the final score – a scenario possibly written in the stars.
Winner: Wigan (3-10 BETFRED)
Score Tip: Wigan by 1-12 points (11-5 STAN JAMES)
First Tryscorer: George Carmont (12-1 WILLIAM HILL)
Score Tip: Wigan by 1-12 points (11-5 STAN JAMES)
First Tryscorer: George Carmont (12-1 WILLIAM HILL)
Best of the rest
Catalan Dragons (3-10 Betfred) have flown up the table of late and can stretch their unbeaten home run to six games against Castleford today.
The French have seen off Wigan and Huddersfield in their last two games at the Stade Gilbert Brutus and Australian scrum-half Scott Dureau (left) is pulling all the right strings.
The Tigers are showing signs of improvement after five defeats in six, drawing against Wigan two weeks ago and following that up with a 15-8 success at Salford last time out.
Terry Matterson’s side, however, are far too over-reliant on sensational stand-off Rangi Chase, which is making them easy for team’s to read. Catalans look well-priced to win by 1-12 points at 13-5 with Stan James.
Elsewhere, Hull KR (4-7 Hills) can give Justin Morgan a timely boost at Harlequins, while Hull FC should prevail when they visit Wakefield – 3-10 Stan James.
Elsewhere, Hull KR (4-7 Hills) can give Justin Morgan a timely boost at Harlequins, while Hull FC should prevail when they visit Wakefield – 3-10 Stan James.
