Round 14 predictions

Catalans Dragons v Huddersfield Giants

What kind of reaction will we see after the Giants’ heart-breaking Challenge Cup Final loss? It was a game that slipped from Huddersfield’s grasp in the dying minutes during a Final they arguably deserved to win. But such is the sometimes-cruel nature of sport, they left with nothing. Ian Watson will be determined to bounce back this week and will now focus all his efforts on league success.

But Huddersfield’s next assignment doesn’t get much easier. A trip to Catalans awaits and Steve McNamara’s team will be raring to go after a week off. The Dragons were far from their best against Hull KR last time out but ultimately found a way to win. And now, they've had a week to recuperate whilst the Giants will be battled and bruised. 

Huddersfield will also be without two key leaders in their pack - Chris Hill and Luke Yates are both unavailable - making the task at hand even greater on Friday Night.

Prediction: Dragons by 12

Warrington Wolves v Leeds Rhinos

Contrary to pre-season predictions, this Round 14 clash takes place between two bottom six sides. Eighth placed Warrington take on tenth placed Leeds as both teams look to reignite their year at the half-way point of the season.

Despite tasting defeat in Round 13, Warrington began to show signs of improvement under Daryl Powell - they fought valiantly against St Helens and were unlucky to lose. For Leeds, Rohan Smith enjoyed his first win as Rhinos boss two weeks ago thanks to a victory against the struggling Wakefield, giving Smith something to build on heading into Friday Night.

After a week's rest for both teams they should be refreshed and ready to put on a show at the Halliwell Jones Stadium - and there shouldn't be much to separate them. 

Prediction: Wolves by 1

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Castleford Tigers v Wigan Warriors

Can the Tigers spoil the Cup Kings party? Challenge Cup Final winners have historically struggled the week after a cup win - Matt Peet will be hoping his side can buck that trend on Saturday when they visit Castleford.

Cas have lost just once at home all season – that defeat coming all the way back in Round 1 - and they’ll fancy their chances to extend that record in front of the Channel 4 cameras. Wigan's league form last month was less than convincing with two losses in May demoting them to third place. Regardless of their Cup antics, they need to start winning in the league to maintain their position near the top. 

The Cup Final inevitably takes a lot out of a side both physically and emotionally – especially after a win. And Cas will hope to capitalise on that.

Prediction: Tigers by 6

Toulouse Olympique v St Helens

Saints have some unfinished business in Toulouse! The French side enjoyed their first Betfred Super League win against the Champions at home earlier this season and once again welcome them to Stade Ernest Wallon. Toulouse have a huge opportunity to secure an unprecedented home double against Saints, but Kristian Woolf’s side won’t go down easily.

That defeat in Round 6 - just one of two league games Saints have lost this year - will undoubtedly be fresh in the players memories with revenge on their minds. Toulouse have bolstered their squad since then as they look to make a real push for survival in 2022.

Toulouse have shown up well at home this year but are likely to face a fired-up St Helens side that will be wary of the their threat. 

Prediction: Saints by 12

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Hull KR v Salford Red Devils

Hull KR and Salford had contrasting months in May. The Robins suffered back-to-back defeats whilst the Red Devils earned two important wins at home.

Nevertheless, Salford’s away record isn’t great this season. They’ve won just once on the road – that victory coming in the opening round - and have lost their last six away from home. a trip to Hull KR is a notoriously tough fixture but Salford have a great chance to overturn their poor away from. 

Hull KR are expected to welcome some key players back and if they can get a bumper crowd behind them, should be able to get back to winning ways.

Prediction: Hull KR by 2

Wakefield Trinity v Hull FC

Trinity need some positive results and fast. They’ve lost their last six – including a defeat away at Toulouse – leaving them just two points away from the foot of the table. And with Toulouse’s squad only getting stronger, there’s a real battle for survival ahead.

Conversely, Hull FC are pushing for a top four spot after just one defeat from their last five. The Black & Whites have found some consistency in recent weeks, but Trinity can take some solace in the fact that Hull FC have lost their last three on the road.

Willie Poching will be looking for a response from his Trinity side, but Hull FC will be in no mood for favours.

Prediction: Hull FC by 8