Round 2 predictions

It was a great start to round 1 with five out of our six predictions guessed right - including two with the correct margin! Round 2 - the Mose Masoe round - is here and so are our predictions... 

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Wigan Warriors v Wakefield Trinity

The Warriors were slow out of the blocks in round 1 and almost succumbed to a shock defeat against the Centurions. The inclusion of Jackson Hastings will be a boost to the side - although their backline is still depleted.  

Trinity narrowly lost out to Rhinos in round 1 and looked much improved from 2020. Mason Lino’s addition in the halves gave them a more polished kicking option and took some of the pressure off Jacob Miller in attack.

Wakefield hasn’t been the easiest of fixtures for Wigan Warriors in recent years, and I expect a similar story this time round. It should be an even contest, but I think the Warriors will have enough to edge it.

Prediction: Warriors by 4

Hull KR v St Helens

Hull KR were second best for three quarters of their match against Catalans Dragons on Saturday – a late resurgence almost salvaged the points that evening. Saints on the other hand looked in complete control during their opener against Salford – you could even argue they weren’t quite firing from all cylinders in attack.

The inclusion of Coote this week will only add to Saints go forward against a Rovers side who left us with more questions than answers about how their defence would hold up this season.

Rovers showed plenty of spirit during their comeback on Saturday but I don’t expect a similar story in round 2.

Prediction: Saints by 20

Warrington Wolves v Leigh Centurions

This will be an intriguing contest – I'm interested to see the Warrington response after their sub-par performance against Castleford. They have the personnel to beat Leigh on Friday but it’s whether Steve Price can get his troops playing with the confidence that seems to be lacking at the moment.

Leigh will again go into this game full of confidence and with nothing to lose – hopefully producing a similar exciting brand of rugby they brought with them in round 1.

However, I expect a Warrington response on Friday despite a spirited Centurions effort.

Prediction: Wolves by 8

What a start ??🔥

The best tries from round 1 of 2021 Betfred #SuperLeague, which is your favourite? pic.twitter.com/tE1Jf3QDDE
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) March 30, 2021

Leeds Rhinos v Castleford Tigers

Tough one to call. I thought Leeds look solid defensively in parts last week and controlled the ruck well in Trinity’s half. Some lapses in concentration and moments of magic from Tom Johnstone almost saw the Rhinos fall short.

Castleford looked strong against Warrington and played with the freedom and vibrancy we have come to expect from Daryl Powell’s side. Niall Evalds is a great bit of business for the Tigers and having Danny Richardson back will only strengthen their spine.

Leeds will need to be dominant in the middle if they are to have a chance on Friday, but I think the Tigers will have too much for them out wide in attack.

Prediction: Tigers by 6

Salford Red Devils v Hull FC

It was a tough start for Salford against the champions last week – they could never really get going as Saints strangled them for yardage. They will be hoping to fix up some of their defensive frailties and I expect a good response from them against against Hull FC.

The black and whites had the perfect start to 2021 and will look to build on their efforts against Huddersfield. They fell short on both occasions when they faced the Red Devils in 2020 so it will be no easy feat for them on Saturday.

Nevertheless, I believe Hull FC will continue their perfect start and compound to Salford’s early season struggles.

Prediction: Hull FC by 12

Huddersfield Giants v Catalans Dragons

Round 1 didn’t quite go to plan for Ian Watson - but with so many new faces in his side, it may take a few more weeks before we see the best of the Giants. Watson will still be experimenting with some of his combinations, particularly in the forward pack, before he settles on a preferred 17. Having Aidan Sezer back will be a huge positive for the Giants go forward and should help them create more chances in attack. 

The Dragons were impressive against Hull KR but showed some cracks in their defence as they almost let a 28-4 lead slip. Points won’t be an issue for them this year but tidying up their defence will be a key factor if they are to compete at the top.

I really like the look of the Dragons this year, but I think Huddersfield will respond after last week’s disappointing defeat.

Prediction: Giants by 2