Leeds v Castleford (+12)
Castleford haven't won at Leeds since 2002 so it's been a long time between drinks at Headingley for them. The last time they played at the Jungle the Rhinos snatched a last-gasp win in atrocious conditions.
I expect it to be more straightforward for them on Friday night. The week off will have benefitted Leeds, they will be fresh for this one and can win and cover the start.
Wigan v Warrington (+12)
Wigan are close to full-strength for this one and that can be the key factor in them winning and covering the start.
This is a re-match from last week's Challenge Cup semi-final and there is talk of the Wolves being without three to five key men. There will have been a lot of hysteria in the camp about reaching the final and with it only three weeks away, focus will be the key for them on Friday.
The Wolves look like being under-strength so Wigan at home and with plenty to prove can win and cover.
Harlequins v Salford (+12)
Harlequins were very disappointing at home to Bradford last week. They won at Odsal the previous week but were brushed aside by the Bulls. Their coach was disgusted by the performance and is demanding better this week.
Salford are missing a key member of their pack in Craig Stapleton and their form on the road is awful. The home side to win and cover to maintain their push for a play-off spot.
Catalans v Hull (+12)
Both sides are without key half-backs in Thomas Bosc and Richard Horne. The Dragons are also still missing Steve Bell and Greg Bird.
Hull could welcome some men back and the final line-ups will be vital as to what happens here but the Catalans have more to play for.
The visitors have to win if they have any ambitions to make the play-offs but it's the home side to win and cover for me.
Hull KR (+4) v St Helens
No Sean Long or Keiron Cunningham for Saints who will be so disappointed at missing out on the Challenge Cup final.
Hull KR had a week off, are at home and receive a start so have plenty going for them. St Helens' egos will be bruised but I like the home side with the start.
Wakefield v Celtic (+18)
The biggest start of the weekend but it is unlikely to be enough for a Crusaders side who simply can't score points.
Wakefield are a better team than the Crusaders - they had a weekend off and have plenty of firepower to blow this Celtic team part.
If they have the right attitude Wakefield will win and cover. Belle Vue is a hard place to go to and the Wildcats will he chomping at the bit for this one.
Huddersfield v Bradford (+8)
I can see the Bulls going really well here. They had a good win at Harlequins last week when their first-half effort was outstanding. The loss of Terry Newton is a blow but Huddersfield could be vulnerable.
They know they are now three weeks away from a Challenge Cup final they can win. Your focus and decision-making changes the moment you reach Wembley and it will be interesting to see how they go in the next couple of weeks.
Bradford have nothing to lose and I make them my bet of the round in Super League.
Parramatta v New Zealand Warriors (+12)
This is a big start in the NRL and it's easy to see why, the Eels have won four or five in a row.
In contrast the Warriors have been the most disappointing side in the competition this season but there were signs of encouragement against the Titans last week.
Parramtta could just lose some focus this week amd the Warriors are the bet with the start. Nathan Cayless is out for the home side and will be sorely missed so I am going to chance the visitors.
Preview posted at 1430BST on 13/08/2009.
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