St Helens v Leeds (+6)
The week off was more of a blessing for St Helens and with Jason Cayless back in their squad, both sides are close to full strength. Leeds don't have a problem going to Knowsley Road and they have some real punch in their forwards but home advantage is huge for St Helens.
They suffered a Challenge Cup hangover in their last game against Wigan and will be refreshed after the break. Sean Long has a great kicking game at Knowsley Road and that will be a huge plus for his side. St Helens to win and cover is my call. The home pack needs to muscle up and match their counterparts - if they do that they can book a Grand Final place at the first time of asking.
Catalans v Wigan (+8)
The Dragons were highly impressive in beating Warrington last week and that superb performance can only give them more confidence. The home crowd will be vocal and while they lose Gregory Mounis to suspension, the Dragons pack continues to impress. Adam Mogg was outstanding last week, Casey Maguire is playing well and all of their key men are finding their best form.
Of the two games this weekend I rate the Dragons the best bet. They can win and cover with home ground advantage and a pack of forwards who are breathing fire right now.
Warriors v Roosters (+4)
I don't think the start is enough for the Roosters. New Zealand were highly impressive in beating Melbourne last week and as long as that game didn't take too much out of them they can win again. They will be full of confidence and back at home, in front of a sell-out crowd, they look the call.
Ruben Wiki is finishing with the Warriors and will want to go out on a high while Steven Price continues to prove he is still one of the best front-row forwards in the game. On the back of those two guys, I take the Warriors to win and cover in a physical, dour, low-scoring game.
Broncos (+4) v Storm
Melbourne have injury doubts about two of their key forwards in Jeff Lima and Ryan Hoffman and even if both play they can't be fully fit. That has to be a worry but then Brisbane haven't had an ideal preparation with a scandal breaking after a players' night out last weekend.
For me the Storm are in the mood to really turn the Broncos over. They will be wounded from their shock defeat by the Warriors last week and the likes of Cameron Smith, Greg Inglis and Billy Slater are three of the best attacking players in the game.
If they step up to the mark Melbourne can be too ruthless for the Broncos. Melbourne to win and cover in an exciting game.
Preview posted at 1045BST on 18/09/2008.
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