Super League Betting Tips - Round 21 (Friday)

Wolves pack a punch at 10-11 handicap

WATCHFUL EYE: Tony Smith has transformed Wire into title contenders

Warrington Wolves v Huddersfield Giants

My pre-season tip for Grand Final glory Warrington are still looking red-hot and I think Huddersfield will get their fingers burnt on Friday night.

Wolves' 48-18 win at Castleford Tigers last week was their seventh win from eight in Super League and Tony Smith's table-toppers sit two points above the Giants.

Huddersfield, though, have beaten the Wire twice this campaign and will be keen to halt what is turning into a worrying record on the road.

Nathan Brown has seen his team lose four of their last five on their travels. A 40-12 hammering at champions Wigan suggested the growing belief that the Giants could mix it with the big boys may be a little premature, while losses at Wakefield and Crusaders should have set alarm bells ringing.

Wolves are 10-11 with Skybet with a handicap of minus 12 points and I think they are worth tucking into to claw back that deficit.

The return of Danny Brough, if he makes it, would be a major boost to the visitors – his kicking game has been integral to their attack this season and his combination with stand-off Kevin Brown would not look out of place on the international scene.

That said, Wolves have a terrific squad and, even without the experienced pairing of Adrian Morley and Lee Briers through injury, I expect them to have too much attacking intent for the Giants.

It's a real clash of styles with Huddersfield's game revolving around the boot of Brough and a solid pack, while Wolves love to off-load with a real emphasis on pace and support play. Huddersfield, notorious for  holding on in the tackle, will look to contain Wire's massive pack from getting their arms free and offloading, but it's easier said than done.

These are the top two try-scoring teams in Super League, but the very fact that Warrington have ran in 41 more tries than their nearest rivals, really does highlight their attacking prowess right now.

Richie Myler is a real talent playing on the shoulder and I'd back him to run in the first try at 12-1 with Hills.

SELECTIONS:
Warrington win -12 handicap (10-11 Skybet)
Richie Myler first try (12-1 William Hill)


Hull FC v Salford

Salford are hitting some great form with four wins in five, but I can see them coming unstuck against Hull FC.

This is another contest in which the handicap appeals - bet365 offering 4-5 on an Airliebirds success covering 10 points.

Hull had won three in a row before last week's defeat to St Helens and have steadily improved over recent months. Their convincing 32-16 win over the Reds in round 16 showed they have more than enough about them to condemn Salford to another defeat.

Tom Briscoe bagged two tries against Saints last week and is the man to back in the first scorer stakes – 10-1 with Betfred.

SELECTIONS:

Hull FC win -12 handicap (10-11 Skybet)

Tom Briscoe first try (10-1 Betfred)

Super League Betting Tips - Round 19 (Friday)

Hungry Wolves will maul Saints

CASE FOR THE DEFENCE: Ben Westwood's tackling has been ferocious

Warrington v St Helens 

Wolves are aiming to seal their first ever Super League double over St Helens and I'm backing Tony Smith's men to do just that at 3-10 with Betfred.

Warrington have been sensational at times this season, top points scorers, best defence and looking very much Grand Final material.

Smith's table-toppers have led the standings for 10 of the 18 rounds this season and look too good for Saints right now.

Royce Simmons visitors may only be three points off the Wire, but punters should read little into that misleading statistic.

Take more notice of this – Wolves have racked up 191 more points than Saints so far this campaign and shipped 103 less points.

At times, a fierce defence and an expansive attack orchestrated by Lee Briers has seen Wolves looking almost unstoppable, while Saints showed very little against Wigan last week to suggest they are ready for this assignment.

With the exception of two defeats to Huddersfield, Wolves have been in great shape against Super League's big hitters this term.

Leeds have been hit for an aggregate score of 82-30, Wigan were humbled 24-6 on their own patch and Saints were also beaten on home turf, 25-18 back in round three.

Saints lacklustre 32-10 loss to the champions last week, allied with a run of four away games without a win, means their price of 11-4 (Boylesports) has little appeal.

Warrington's defence has been brutal this season. Ben Westwood's efforts in particular have hugely impressed, though it is very much a disciplined team unit.

In attack, the likes of Westood, Gareth Carvell, Paul Wood and Adrian Morley have laid the perfect platform for the likes of Brett Hodgson and Briers to weave their magic and, with two of the best centres around in Chris Bridge and Ryan Atkins, Wolves have plenty of ammunition out wide.

One major aspect to Wolves' play is the amount of offloads they are coming up with – 284 in total, that's 83 more than Saints.

It was a high-profile trait during Smith's reign at Leeds that the Rhinos topped the table for offloads and it is no surprise to see the Wire now succeeding with similar tactics.

On the evidence of what I've seen this season, I am left to think that the only question for punters is how many points Warrington will run out winners by.

Led by their two instrumental James's, Roby and Graham, Saints will no doubt put up a fight, but a Wolves win by 21-30 points is worth a punt at 5-1 with Paddy Power.

Warrington to win both halves also catches the eye at 11-8 with bet365.

I've always sang the praises of Bridge, a hugely talented and creative ball-runner, but he also knows the way to the line and he is available at 12-1 with Betfred to grab the first try.

Winner: Warrington (3-10 BETFRED)
Score Tip: Wolves by 21-30 points (5-1 PADDY P) / Wolves win both halves (11-8 BET365)
First Tryscorer: Chris Bridge (12-1 BETFRED) 

11-1 Jones-Bishop will lead Rhinos charge

RHINO RETURN: Jones-Bishop is a great prospect for the Blue and Amber

Leeds v Bradford 

These two teams headed into this corresponding fixture last season in similar predicaments and played out a thrilling 20-20 draw.

Once again Leeds are struggling to establish themselves among the top four, while Bradford, at this stage at least, look no better than 12 months ago.

Skybet offer 25-1 on another share of the spoils, but I think Leeds should have too much for their West Yorkshire rivals.

The Rhinos defence has been shoddy at best this term, but 20 points shipped in their last two games reflects a modicum of improvement in that area.

In attack, the Blue and Amber have run hot and cold, but even if the likes of Danny McGuire, Kevin Sinfield and Brent Webb are just luke warm, you sense the hosts should have too much quality for the Bulls.

Much will be made of Matt Diskin's return to Headingley and I'm confident the home faithful will give the hooker the reception he deserves after more than a decade with Leeds.

With that exception, though, I doubt Diskin's return will be an enjoyable one. Bradford have shown few signs of improvement this season and sneaking into the play-offs is surely coach Mick Potter's most realistic target.

Two wins in nine is hardly helping the Bull's cause and, short of ideas in attack, I think Leeds' defence will cope well enough, despite conceding a few points along the way.

Young winger Ben Jones-Bishop was on fire at the start of the season before injury struck and he can grab the first try of the game on his return to action – best priced 11-1 with Totesport.

McGuire was back on the scoresheet in last week's narrow 12-7 victory at Crusaders and is 12-1 with Betfred to run-in the last try.

Winner: Leeds (2-7 BETFRED)
Score Tip: Leeds by 16-20 points (11-2 BETFRED)
First Tryscorer: Ben Jones-Bishop (11-1 TOTESPORT)


Crusaders v Salford

Crusaders are looking to clinch a hat-trick of wins over the Reds this year and they look great value to do so at 10-11 with Betfred.

Iestyn Harris' Welsh outfit smashed Salford 42-12 in their Cardiff season opener and edged out the Reds 16-10 in round eight.

After a shock 18-16 win at leaders Warrington, Salford were brought back down to earth by Castleford last week and I think basement club Crusaders can continue their recent dominance over the Reds, having won the previous five League meetings.

Harris thought his team were unfortunate to come away from their last contest against the Rhinos empty handed, but he'll be in better spirits after this 80 minutes.

Aussie stand-off Michael Witt is key for Crusaders and he looks nicely priced for the opening score at 16-1 with Betfred.

Winner: Crusaders (10-11 BETFRED)
Score Tip: Crusaders by 1-12 points (2-1 BET365)
First Tryscorer: Michael Witt (16-1 BETFRED)

Super League Round 7 (Saturday and Sunday)

LAND OF THE GIANTS: Willie Mason will line-up against Eorl Crabtree

Hull KR v Huddersfield Giants (Saturday)

BIG Willie Mason, as his name suggests, rarely gives little away in size but Huddersfield Giants’ Eorl Crabtree provides one such anomaly.

The Yorkshire club’s popular prop, nephew of legendary professional wrestler Shirley “Big Daddy” Crabtree, stands two inches taller than his Austrlian counterpart at 6ft 6in and looks set to play his part in an almighty clash of the titans down the middle of the park.

Mason himself is anything but popular on these shores after flooring Stuart Fielden and Sean Long in off-the-ball incidents during Great Britain’s 2006 Tri-Nations campaign.

The 30-year-old will no doubt be a target for some of Super League’s more volatile characters and the Giants’ mean forward line will provide Mason with his sternest test in England to date.

Huddersfield, who have enjoyed one of the top defensive records over the last few years in Super League, have shipped just 92 points in six games.

TALL ORDER: Can Crabtree inspire Huddersfield to beat Hull KR?

With Rovers missing their creative lynchpin, half-back Michael Dobson, the Giants look outstanding value at 8-13 with Betfred to outscore their hosts.

Dobson’s boot is integral to Rovers’ gameplan and I expect his 10-week absence due to ankle surgery to hit the Robins hard.

Mason’s arrival is a boost, but four defeats from their opening six contests suggests coach Justin Morgan needs his talisman back sooner, rather than later.

Without Dobson’s kicking game, the emphasis is on Rovers’ pack to make up the hard yards and they are struggling.

And, while it is the clash of the giants in Mason and Crabtree that provides a great sub-plot to this clash, it is Huddersfield’s hooker Luke Robinson and stand-off Kevin Brown that will prove decisive.

Robinson made a try-scoring return from injury last week and his lively attacking play makes him an eye-catching 20-1 with Hills to grab the first try.

Nathan Brown’s men had enough possession and territory to bag the points in last week’s 20-6 defeat to Wigan, but made some poor final decisions against the competition’s best defence.

I can’t see that happening twice and, thanks to their solid defence, the Giants can clinch this by 13+ points at 7-4 with Blue Square.

Winner: Giants to win (8-13 Betfred)
Score Tip: Giants by 13+ points (7-4 Blue Square)
First Tryscorer: Luke Robinson (20-1 William Hill)


Catalans v Salford (Saturday)

IN today’s other contest, Catalans can clinch two points against Salford in France. The Dragons were 32-22 victors at Crusaders last time out and were marginally defeated by Saints in their last home
fixture.

Trent Robinson’s men (1-3 Betfred) face a tough task against a Salford side who romped past Hull KR last week, but the City Reds have been battered in two of their three away games and look a little vulnerable on the road.

Australian Scott Dureau has seven tries to his name already and is sparkling with value at 25-1 (Hills) to open the scoring.

Winner: Catalans to win (1-3 Betfred)
Score Tip: Catalans by 1-12 points (12-5 Paddy Power)
First Tryscorer: Scott Dureau (25-1 William Hill)


Wakefield Wildcats v Leeds Rhinos (Sunday)

Tomorrow’s action should see Leeds Rhinos – desperate to entertain this season with a staggering 113 offloads already – return to winning ways at Wakefield.

The Blue and Amber enjoyed enough possession and territory to beat Saints with some ease last week, but coach Brian McDemott’s over emphasis on entertaining rugby is costing Leeds points.

Too many knock-ons and dropped ball are hurting Leeds right now but, with a little fine tuning, this approach may deliver. On paper, the Rhinos, despite a bulky injury list, should edge this with few problems at 2-11 with Betfred.

Young centre Kallum Watkins is a real talent and nicely priced to grab the first try at 12-1 with Hills.

Winner: Leeds to win (2-11 Betfred)
Score Tip: Leeds by 16-20 points (11-2 Stan James)
First Tryscorer: Kallum Watkins (12-1 William Hill)


Castleford v Crusaders (Sunday)

Early pace-setters Castleford can return to winning ways against a Crusaders outfit who have lost their last five games.

Jarrod Sammut has run in six tries for the Welsh side, but the Tigers have been very impressive at The Coliseum and I expect them to bag another two points – 1-4 with Hills.

Ranghi Chase has been running the show for Terry Matterson’s men, but I’m backing full-back Richie Mathers to grab his first Tigers try at 22-1 (Betfred).

Winner: Castleford to win (1-4 William Hill)
Score Tip: Tigers by 21-25 points (9-1 William Hill)
First Tryscorer: Ritchie Mathers (22-1 Betfred)


Harlequins v Hull FC (Sunday)

In this weekend’s final match, home advantage should prove enough for Harlequins to edge out a out-of-sorts Hull FC to increase the pressure on coach Richard Agar (11-8 Sky Bet).

Quins were spanked last time out by Wolves, so will be up for this one, while the Airlie Birds have looked clueless at times this campaign.

Winner: Quins to win (11-8 Sky Bet)
Score Tip: Quins by 1-12 points (15-8 bet365)
First Tryscorer: Luke Dorn (10-1 William Hill)

Super League Round 6 (Friday)

LUKE-ING UP: Luke Robinson is integral to Huddersfield Giants' challenge

Huddersfield v Wigan 

LEAGUE leaders Huddersfield will underline their Grand Final hopes tonight by becoming the first team to beat champions Wigan.

Nathan Brown’s Giants have stormed to four wins from their opening five fixtures, including a 28-18 opening day success over Challenge Cup holders – and my tip to be crowned winners at Old Trafford – Warrington.

The form of stand-off Kevin Brown, the Giants’ newly-appointed captain, has been inspirational, but the truth is that Huddersfield have been knocking on the door for a few years now.

Australian coach Brown has instilled a fantastic, disciplined defensive side to the Giants game, while the likes of the talismanic Brown, Luke Robinson and Danny Brough ensure the League leaders have plenty of creative juices pumping through their veins.

The Giants, who showed all their attacking prowess in a 50-16 mauling of Bradford last week, are 8-13 with Betfred to beat Michael Maguire’s Cherry and Whites, and I rate that as a stunning price.

The Warriors will be missing two of their top performers in brothers Sam and Joel Tomkins through suspension, while Paul Deacon, Pat Richards and Brett Finch are out injured.

The future of missing centre Martin Gleeson is also up in the air and a home win by 13+ points (2-1 Stan James) certainly catches the eye.

This contest does, however, showcase two of the League’s best defences and a Giants’ margin of victory by 6-10 points could prove a much safer option for punters (13-2 Betfred).

As for the first try market, Danny Brough has two tries to his name already and looks a class act now he has had time to settle in at one of Super League’s big contenders. Brough is 16-1 across the board, while the equally influential Brown is a stand-out 16-1 (Skybet) to round off the scoring with the final try of the game.

Winner: Giants (8-13 Betfred)
First Tryscorer: Danny Brough (16-1 Skybet)


Crusaders v Catalans

Crusaders coach Iestyn Harris got off to flyer with a

42-12 win over Salford in Cardiff, but is now looking to end a run of four successive defeats.

Notoriously poor travellers Catalans should provide the former Great Britain stand-off with the perfect opportunity to set that record straight and the Welsh are good value for the two points at 10-11 with Stan James.

Captain Jack Sparrow look-alike Jarrod Sammut has started the season in fine form, with five tries to his name already, and is 16-1 (Skybet) to grab the first four-pointer of the contest.


Winner: Crusaders (10-11 Stan James)
First Tryscorer: Jarrod Sammut (16-1 Skybet)


Hull FC v Wakefield

THE Airlie Birds came mightily close to toppling Wigan last week, but will bag their second win of the campaign against the Wildcats (1-20 Hills).

A 42-18 thumping of Catalans in their last outing at the KC Stadium suggests Hull should have few problems seeing off John Kear’s rock-bottom side.

Wakey have lost four from five this term and are struggling to get over the whitewash – just 88 points to their name thus far. Nigerian-born Will Sharp has notched up four tries already this season, and can get the hosts up and running with the first tonight at 8-1 with Skybet.

Winner: Hull FC (1-20 Hills)
First Tryscorer: Will Sharp (8-1 Skybet)


Salford v Hull KR

AUSTRALIAN man-mountain Willie Mason made a terrific debut in Rovers’ 40-22 win over Crusaders last week and can inspire Justin Morgan’s men to a third win of the campaign.

Mason was at his tackle-busting and offloading best last week, while Salford, who have shipped more points than any other team, were getting spanked by an injury-hit Leeds Rhinos.

Back Ben Galea to get the first try (16-1 Skybet) in a Robins win (2-5 Betfred).

Winner: Hull KR (2-5 Betfred)
First Tryscorer: Ben Galea (16-1 Skybet)

Super League Round 5 (Friday)

C-ASH IN: Salford's Ashley Gibson is 16-1 with Hills to bag the first try

Leeds v Salford 

The Rhinos' injury crisis deepens every passing week and Salford will have no better opportunity to grab what would be only their second ever win over the Blue and Amber in the Super League era.

The Reds are best priced at 5-1 with Boylesports and, in the words of Leeds coach Brian McDermott, must be "rubbing their hands together on two fronts.

"They'll be thinking our pack is a bit lightweight and, if you look at the footage from last week, they'll be thinking all they have to do is get near the try line and they'll come up with some joy."

True enough, Leeds' error prone efforts and lacklustre defence in their 40-24 defeat at Warrington, allied with that mounting injury list, suggests Salford are in with a shout at Headingley.

The Rhinos will line-up without a recognised prop, with Jamie Peacock, Ryan Bailey, Kylie Leuluai and Luke Burgess all sidelined, while Aussie recruit Ben Cross misses out through suspension.

Salford, meanwhile, have virtually no injury concerns and look destined to boss this game down the middle of the park. Ian Kirke and Jamie Jones-Buchanan will be pushed up into Leeds' front row and will need to play out of their skin if the hosts are to prevail.

Leeds clearly have enough creativity and pace in their backs to cause problems, but at a pathetic 1-7 with Hills, the Rhinos are best avoided. Salford are the only team worth backing in this contest and decent value at 5-1.

Winner: Salford (5-1 Boylesports)
Score Tip: Salford by 1-5 points (10-1 William Hill)
First Tryscorer: Ashley Gibson (16-1 William Hill)

St Helens v Harlequins 

Quins bright start was halted by Huddersfield last week and St Helens are 1-7 favourites with Betfred to inflict back-to-back defeats on Rob Powell's men.

The Londoners have only beaten Saints once in Super League and will struggle to contain a James Roby inspired St Helens at the Halton Stadium.

Roby is already flourishing thanks to the extra game time provided by Keiron Cunningham's retirement, with the hooker topping Super League's ball carrying metres table – 762 and counting.

The 25-year-old is also towards the top of the offloads standings and Roby's ability to drive Saints forward at pace will prove decisive in this contest.

Australian prop Josh Perry will be making his Saints' bow and will certainly give Quins plenty of food for thought in the middle of the park.

Winner: Saints to win (1-7 Betfred)
Score Tip: Saints by 21-55 points (15-2 Betfred)
First Tryscorer: Paul Wellens (14-1 William Hill) 

Wakefield v Warrington 

Wolves were rampant against Leeds last Saturday and I can't see anything other than a fourth straight win for Tony Smith's impressive team at 1-12 (Betfred).

Teenage centre Rhys Evans was the stand-out performer in that 40-24 defeat of Leeds, but there was plenty of Warrington players who caught the eye, particularly hooker Michael Monaghan.

It seems inevitable that the Wildcats will succumb to a third successive defeat. Heavy losses to Salford and Bradford, two teams who will certainly finish below Warrington in the standings, does not bode well.

Warrington are 15-2 with Betfred to win by more than 41 points and, sadly for Wakey fans, I wouldn't rule it out. The Wire are running red-hot right now.

Warrington's Chris Riley has scored tries in the Wolves' last three Super League meetings with Wakefield and he therefore is the obvious tip to open the scoring at 10-1 with sportingbet.

Winner: Warrington to win (1-12 Betfred)
Score Tip: Warrington by 41+ points (15-2 Betfred)
First Tryscorer: Chris Riley (10-1 sportingbet)

Super League Round 4 (Friday)

A GIANT PRICE: Kevin Brown is a great shout to bag the first try at 20-1

It's been a tough start to my debut rugby league tipping blog, thanks largely due to busy recruiting in the off-season and some surprising results. But having now seen all the contenders in action a few times, hopefully you can all cash in on some decent price winners...

Harlequins v Huddersfield (Friday)

Did any of you fancy Harlequins to top the standings after three games? No, me neither, but I’m backing Huddersfield to bring a touch of normality to Super League XVI on Friday night.

Quins stunned Leeds last week with a well-deserved 36-26 success at Headingley, but it’s worth pointing out that the Rhinos were missing some key names.

Narrow wins over Catalans and Crusaders proceeded that win in West Yorkshire, but 2-5 (Betfred) Huddersfield will provide young Quins coach Rob Powell with his sternest test to date.

Nathan Brown’s Giants boast a clean bill of health and, with the exception of a below-par effort at Castleford, have looked very impressive in wins over Hull FC (20-10) and Warrington (28-18).

Stand-off Kevin Brown just keeps on improving and was the catalyst for all the Giants best attacking moves against the Airlie Birds last week. Back Huddersfield’s captain to lead by example by grabbing the first try as Quins finally taste defeat.

Winner: Huddersfield to win (2-5 Betfred)
Score Tip: Giants to win by 13+ points (7-4 Blue Square)
First Tryscorer: Kevin Brown (20-1 Skybet)

Hull FC v Crusaders (Friday)

Three successive defeats to open the campaign has intensified the pressure on Hull coach Richard Agar and I think this clash is a tough one to call.

I’ve seen enough from Iestyn Harris’ team to suggest the Welsh will be competitive this season and Crusaders are an eye-catching price at 9-4 with Victor Chandler.

Sean Long’s long standing Achilles’ injury rules out the veteran scrum-half and though Australian’s Craig Fitzgibbon and Mark O’Meley bring plenty of power down the middle, I think Hull really are lacking a creative spark right now.

At a short 2-5 (Stan James), the Airlie Birds offer little value and I certainly rate Crusaders as a decent outside bet at 9-4 (Stan James). If you do fancy Hull to finally deliver, then I’d definitely advise taking a punt on a small margin of victory to find a decent price - Stan James offer 13-2 on a Hull win by 1-5 points.

Winner: Crusaders to win (9-4 Stan James)
Score Tip: Back up bet of Hull to win by 1-5 points (13-2 Stan James)
First Tryscorer: Tom Briscoe (10-1 William Hill)

Salford v Wigan (Friday)

Shaun McRae has been given a month's leave from Salford on health grounds and that's definitely a smart move, because a visit from the champions is not what they need at The Willows right now.

Seriously though, McRae should have taken leave on health grounds years ago. Perhaps ITV's Biggest Loser has finally inspired Sky Sports' fattest pundit into action.

I doubt McRae's absence will have little effect on proceedings in this one though, where Wigan, despite a few weary legs no doubt from their tussle with St George, are easy winners at 1-5 with Hills.

Amos Roberts was the best player in Super League before injury struck last term and now, with some decent game time under his belt, he can run riot against a Salford side already thrashed by heavy scores against Crusaders and Saints this campaign. Roberts is 11-1 with sportingbet to grab the opening try.

The Reds win at Wakey last week will count for little against the Cherry and Whites. A Wigan win by 41+ points at 10-1 with Betfred is not out of the question.

Winner: Wigan to win (1-5 William Hill)
Score Tip: Wigan to win by 41+ points (10-1 Betfred)
First Tryscorer: Amos Roberts (11-1 sportingbet)

Super League Betting Tips - Round 2 (Friday)

WAT A FUTURE: Kallum Watkins is set for a big season with the Rhinos

Hull FC v  Leeds Rhinos

LEEDS have won their last six contests against the Airlie Birds and Skybet’s 4-7 on Brian McDermott’s Rhinos is worth tucking into.

Youngsters Kallum Watkins, 19, and Ben Jones-Bishop, 22, are two of the most prodigious up and coming talents in the game and combined superbly as the latter crossed the whitewash to complete a dramatic Leeds comeback in Cardiff last Sunday.

Centre Watkins and winger Jones-Bishop certainly look like being two to watch in Sky Sport’s first Friday night clash of the campaign, as is second-rower Weller Hauraki.

The former Parramatta Eel, set for his Rhinos debut after finally bagging a work permit, was hugely impressive for Crusaders last term and I expect him to flourish alongside some of Leeds’ star names.

The Black and Whites came flying out of the blocks against Hull KR last week, but quickly, and worrying I’m sure for coach Richard Agar, fell away.

A 14-0 lead ended in a comprehensive 34-22 defeat and, if there is any team in Super League you need to stay switched on for 80 minutes against, it is the Rhinos.

I can see a similar pattern emerging at the KC Stadium, with a strong opening from the hosts, for who new recruit Sam Obst should feature, but Leeds proving the stronger come the final hooter. Paddy Power offer 13-2 that Hull lead at half-time, with Leeds ending victorious and that’s a cracking price.

Watkins is 16-1 with Hills to bag the final try and it would come as no surprise to see the Leeds ace reward punters while underlining his undoubted potential.

Winner: Leeds (4-7 Skybet)
Score Tip: Leeds to win by 1-12 points (2-1 Stan James)
First Tryscorer: Kirk Yeaman (16-1 Sportingbet)


Salford v St Helens

SAINTS boss Royce Simmons will be cursing an injury list that deprives him of James Graham, Leon Pryce, Gary Wheeler and new signing Josh Perry, but at least rugby union target Kyle Eastmond is still expected to feature and see out the last year of his contract.

St Helens comeback from 16-0 down against arch rivals and champions Wigan last week emphasised to any doubters that Saints will once again be challenging come Grand Final reckoning, while Salford’s 42-12 crushing at the hands of Crusaders should convince punters there can be only one winner at The Willows.

Salford had been tipped in many quarters to mount a challenge for the play-offs, but last week’s showing was a rude awakening for Reds’ fans.

Saints may be without some key names, but a comfortable win is surely on the cards, with James Roby and the irrepressible Tony Puletua, inspirational in last Saturday’s late heroics, leading the charge for the visitors.

Winner: St Helens (1-3 Betfred)
Score Tip: St Helens win by 16-20 points (6-1 Hills)
First Tryscorer: James Roby (20-1 Hills)

Super League Betting Tips - Round 1 (Sunday)

DISK-O TIME: Can new Bulls hooker Matt Diskin get Bradford ticking over?

 Crusaders v Salford

A crack at the Super League play-offs is not out of the question for Salford this campaign after Shaun McRae brought in a wealth of experienced players in the off-season.

The likes of Stephen Wild, Chris Nero, Vinnie Anderson, Sean Gleeson, Iafeta Paleassina and Phil Bailey will ensure McRae’s men are much more competitive than last time out and I’m backing Salford to get off to a flyer by bagging the points against Crusaders.

Iestyn Harris beings his Super League coaching career with a four point deficit due to the Crusaders going into administration but, in Jarrod Sammut, he has an exciting talent who can inspire the Welsh to some surprise victories.

Winner: Salford (8-13 Stan James)
Score Tip: Salford by 1-12 points (15-8 Blue Square)
First Tryscorer: Ashley Gibson (14-1 William Hill)

Bradford v Leeds

Mick Potter has included all 10 of his new signings for the derby with Leeds and there is certainly a few interesting sub-plots to this West Yorkshire clash.

Former Rhinos stalwarts Chev Walker and Matt Diskin will line-up for the Bulls, while many are interested to see how Leeds’ new coaching duo of former Bradford men Brian McDermott and James Lowes will get on.

And then there’s also the small matter of official Steve Ganson taking charge after the chaos he caused with Leeds last-gasp win at this very ground in 2007!

Potter has, perhaps wisely, recruited players with something to prove, but it’s hard to see Bradford’s new team clicking together instantly and, though Leeds are missing Jamie Peacock and Danny McGuire, they still boast an established squad with plenty of quality.

McDermott has expressed his desire to see his Leeds team adopt an exciting brand of rugby league this term and where better to indulge in that expansive style of play than on Cardiff’s giant pitch.

Winner: Leeds (2-5 William Hill)
Score Tip: Leeds by 13+ points (17-10 bet365)
First Tryscorer: Weller Hauraki (28-1 Sportingbet)

Hull FC v Hull KR

What a way to end the opening weekend as the Airlie Birds and Robins tear into each other in Cardiff!

Two evenly matched sides in my eyes after watching both Super League derbies between these two in 2010 but, with Sean Long fit and raring to go, I’m going to side with Hull FC for this one.

Loose-forward Joe Westerman is a hugely talented player who may shine further in a new environment, while visa problems rob opponents Hull KR of their major off-season signing, Willie Mason.

Winner: Hull FC (Evens Stan James)
Score Tip: Hull FC by 1-5 points (5-1 Stan James)
First Tryscorer: Kirk Yeaman (16-1 Stan James)

Super League 2011 Betting Preview

WIG WHAM BAM: Can Wigan carry their sensational form into 2011?

THE almighty conundrum facing rugby league punters in 2011 is can anyone stop Wigan Warriors bagging a second successive Grand Final victory?

Michael Maguire’s Cherry and Whites finished the regular season four points clear of the field and a memorable first campaign for their Australian coach culminated in an emphatic 22-10 victory over arch rivals St Helens at old Trafford to seal a deserved Super League trophy.

And it wasn’t the only silverware heading to those at the DW Stadium. Goal-kicking winger Pat Richards was crowned Man of Steel, while Sam Tomkins, for the second year in a row, was young player of the year.

As if that wasn’t enough, coach of the year Maguire has shipped in the talented trio of Brett Finch, Ryan Hoffman and Jeff Lima from Melbourne Storm to strengthen even further.

Second-rower Gareth Hock should also return from a two-year drugs ban in July and, with an array of young talent coming through, spearheaded by the best young talent in the game, Tomkins, Wigan will be the team to beat.

Consequently, the champions are overwhelming favourites with the bookies to retain their title (2-1 various) and are best priced at only 15-8 (Skybet) to wrap up another League Leaders’ Shield.

Rugby League, though, thankfully, is rarely that predictable and hope already springs eternal for the pretenders to Wigan’s throne.

Firstly, the influential Richards will miss Wigan’s opening fixtures due to an Achilles injury, while neck surgery has also ruled out new recruit Finch early doors.

Other clubs have also been busy brining in new blood to improve their chances, but who are Wigan’s likeliest challengers?

Well, fallen champions Leeds will have the bit between their teeth, but new coach Brian McDermott must be cursing the injuries to England captain Jamie Peacock and support-play expert Danny McGuire.

Leeds are best avoided at 6-1 with Betfred to top the standings at the end of the regular season, but with both McGuire and Peacock set to return in May, that could give the Blue and Amber just the boost they need going into the play-offs. Leeds are 5-1 with Stan James to get their hands back on the Super League trophy and they will have their backers.

With two of the game’s best off-loaders and line-breakers in Ali Lauitiiti and the ever-green Keith Senior, backed up by the support play talents of Brent Webb, Lee Smith and Ryan Hall, the Rhinos will always be a threat.

Beaten Grand-finalists St Helens are forced to pick themselves up after a fourth successive heartache at Old Trafford and, under new coach Royce Simmons, are 7-2 with Blue Square to end that recent hoodoo.

The retention of exciting half-back Kyle Eastmond is paramount to Simmons’ hopes of bagging silverware, though hooker James Roby can be expected to flourish even further after his well served apprenticeship under the now retired Keiron Cunningham.

New signings Michael Shenton and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook will also thrive in their new enviroment, but a ground share with Widness relinquishes Saints of any home advantage this term and that could hinder their League position and play-off chances.

For me, Tony Smith’s back-to-back Challenge Cup winners Warrington are the best value option – 4-1 with Skybet to seal their first Super League crown.

Brett Hodgson will provide a steady pair of hands at full-back, while Adrian Morley and Ben Westwood spearhead a fearsome pack that should lay the groundwork for the boot and creative touch of Lee Briers.

The pace and support play among the likes of Ryan Atkins, Matt King, Richie Myler and Joel Monaghan should also ensure punters are not left barking up the wrong tree. If Wolves’ progress so far under Smith continues, they will not be far off come the final hooter at Old Trafford.

Elsewhere, no-one has been more active than new Bradford Bulls’ boss Mick Potter. High-profile recruits like Matt Diskin, Oliver Elima, Bryn Hargreaves and Chev Walker should carry the Bulls back into the play-offs, but at 40-1 (Blue Square) for Grand Final glory, that’s as good as it will get.

Huddersfield Giants have an astute coach in Nathan Brown, will be tight in defence, and have some fine English talent in Kevin Brown, Luke Robinson, Eorl Crabtree and Leroy Cudjoe.

For me, the Giants (25-1 Victor Chandler) lack the cutting edge to rival the likes of Wigan, St Helens and Leeds, but at 3-1 with Hills to top the regular season standings without last season’s top four, Brown’s men are sparkling with value.

Castleford are 100-1 with Betfred, a price which reflects the departures of star men Shenton and Joe Westermen. The Tigers are likely to struggle, but stand-off Rangi Chase will no doubt provide some memorable moments.

Hull FC could bring the best out loose forward Westerman, but they would still be relying on Sean Long rolling back the years to cash in at 28-1 with Betfred, while cross-city rivals Hull KR (33-1 Hills) could surprise a few people if former Aussie Test forward Willie Mason finds his form. The prospect of Mason squaring up with Jamie Peacock and Stuart Fielden once more certainly wets the appetite!

Trent Robinson has made some smart signings at Catalans (40-1 Betfred), particularly Scott Dureau from Newcastle Knights, which should make the Dragons a stronger force but, just like Iestyn Harris’ Crusaders (150-1 Stan James), they will struggle to pick up points on their travels.

Harlequins new coach Rob Powell faces a baptism of fire. At 250-1 with Blue Square, the Londoners will be happy to avoid finishing bottom, though John Kear’s Wakefield (300-1 Stan James), ravaged by off-field problems, have an even tougher challenge ahead.

Finally, some experienced signings including Vinnie Anderson, Sean Gleeson, Iafeta Paleaessina, and Phil Bailey should see Salford – 150-1 with Stan James – vastly improve and pushing for the play-offs.

Expect all the usual contenders to be fighting it out, but it’s 4-1 Warrington that, for me, offer the best value in the market and can take the champions Wigan to the wire.

SELECTIONS:Wigan to finish top (regular season) – 15-8 Skybet
Warrington to win Grand Final – 4-1 Skybet
Huddersfield to finish top (regular season) without big four - 3-1 William Hill