Round 14 predictions

9 Jul 2021

Leeds Rhinos v Catalans Dragons

Arguably the two form sides in the competition, the Rhinos have found some much needed consistency over the past couple of weeks. Their big win away at Castleford at the end of May was followed by an extended break due to Covid-19, but they picked up where they left off on their return.

Richard Agar’s side looked impressive against Warrington and will need to be even better on Friday. The Dragons have coasted through their recent fixtures and look to be the real deal this year. Sam Tomkins, Maloney and Drinkwater are all in a rich vein of form and steering their team effortlessly around the pitch.

The Rhinos should be full of confidence after Monday’s win, but a fresh Dragons side may have a little too much for them.

Prediction: Dragons by 8

Wakefield Trinity v St Helens

Trinity have been hit by a further Covid-19 outbreak with Chris Chester admitting he only has 17 fit players available this week. An arduous task at the best of times, facing the champions with limited resources will make it a difficult evening for Wakefield.

Saints may have one eye on their Challenge Cup final next week but will be focused on the job in hand this week. Players on the periphery of the squad will be eager to impressive to give themselves a chance of selection next week, whilst the squad will want to head into the final off the back of a win.

Prediction: Saints by 12

Hull FC v Leigh Centurions

These two sides played each other less than a month ago with Hull FC taking the spoils after an emphatic performance. It's a game that Leigh will want to rectify – you would expect the Centurions to turn up to the MKM stadium with redemption on their mind.

The black and whites are another side that have recently been effected by a Covid-19 outbreak, but should again have too much for Leigh. The Centurions are quickly falling further and further away from the rest of the league - if they are to survive past 2021, a win is desperately needed sooner rather than later.

Prediction: Hull FC by 20

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Hull KR v Warrington Wolves

Could George Williams make his Wolves debut on Sunday? After the announcement of his imminent arrival on Thursday Night, all eyes will be on whether Williams will be selected in round 14. At the time of writing, the squads have not been announced - but with the absence of Gareth Widdop, there’s a potential spot for Williams in the halves.

Rovers are back in action after a severe Covid-19 outbreak hampered their progress. Despite having a prolonged break, players have had limited opportunity to train together and some may have been feeling the full effects of the virus.

Warrington will be out to avenge Monday’s poor performance against Leeds, but Rovers home form this year could make it difficult.

Prediction: Wolves by 2

Wigan Warriors v Huddersfield Giants

These two sides are in a slump and will be desperate for a result on Sunday afternoon. Both teams have lost their last five games - injuries and Covid-19 having an adverse effect on their playing squads.

The Warriors showed glimpses of their grit and desire against rivals Saints, albeit matched by an out of touch attack, and undoubtedly have the talent to pull them out of their indifferent run of form. The Giants have lacked any real spark in recent weeks - their problems impounded by a decimated squad.

This contest may not be pretty, but there's plenty on the line for both sides.

Prediction: Warriors by 6

Castleford Tigers v Salford Red Devils

This will be the Tigers final outing before their Challenge Cup final clash next weekend – Daryl Powell’s side will be eager to put out a strong performance heading into their Wembley showdown. The Tigers should welcome back some key figures in their team and will be relatively well rested following a forced break.

Conversely, Salford are again down on troops – coach Richard Marshall has limited options once again heading into Sunday’s clash. It has been a baptism of fire for Marshall in his first year in charge, with issues on and off the field denting his sides progress.

It could be a tough afternoon for the Red Devils as Cas look to prepare for their Wembley appearance next week.

Prediction: Tigers by 10

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