Wigan to go to war on Salford

SUPER LEAGUE

Saturday August 18

Catalan v Leeds (+12)

The hardest thing here is that Challenge Cup is next week, and it's a tough one for Leeds as their focus is the final.

For Catalan the problem is last week's big loss. They had some good players return to the side and were keen on their chances, but were poor and need to improve. I'll still just go for Catalan, but only because Leeds' focus may be elsewhere.

Widnes (+12) v Hull FC

Widnes have improved so much at home, they're hard to play against, and are pretty good value with any start.

Hull had a very good win last week though, so this is a tough game to call.

Essentially it's a toss-up between home advantage and the better team, and I would just lean towards Hull who need to win to keep in play-offs.

Sunday August 19

Huddersfield v Bradford (+8)

Huddersfield are a good team but are badly out of form, with two wins in 10 games.

Bradford, for all their turmoil, continue to play well and keep winning. We're all waiting for the situation to catch up with the Bradford players but it's not happened yet.

Huddersfield have the quality but Bradford have the attitude, and the latter get my vote with the start.

Hull KR v Wakefield (+6)

I think with this game, Wakefield are in the better form, while Hull KR aren't consistent.

However, Hull KR are a different team at home and that advantage is a massive help, and Wakefield conceded too many points last time.

Away from home they might struggle, so with home advantage I'll go with Hull KR to win and cover the start.

Monday August 20

Wigan v Salford (+28)

I'm expecting Pat Richards back for Wigan, the long turnaround will have been very good for them and they'll be raring to go.

A few good strike players are missing for Salford and from my experience they'll be vulnerable now as their squad weakens.

Wigan should win and win well.

NRL

Raiders v Roosters (+8)

This is a massive, must-win game for Raiders, who played a poor Penrith team last week and had a bit of luck.

The Roosters normally do very well at Canberra and with their style of play and a start they're fancied to win.