XIII Oceans

Super League XVI – Round 17

The first representative game of the season in the northern hemisphere this weekend and rightly it takes centre stage.  The England team are on a bit of a hiding to nothing really with a win likely to be deemed as being against a non-opponent and a loss self-explanatory.  Brian McClennan is coaching the Exiles and he does know how to motivate teams for the big games.  We’ll see if he’s able to tap into that exile spirit to bring together his strong line-up of professionals.

The fixture planners appear to have landed the games perfectly as well, with a weekend of less  interesting contests than is the norm.

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Leeds v Hull KR
Down to Brett’s neighbourhood for my prime time game.  Prime time purely because of the Leeds crisis.  I fully expect Leeds’ quality to shine through here but this could be a battle royal all the way.  Rovers have nothing to lose and a derby win behind them.  Both big factors which should inspire Justinho’s men to levels of self-belief that they haven’t yet reached this season.  Ryan Hall, Peacock, Sinfield, Buderus and possibly JJB may well be turning out on Friday whereas, incredibly I know, Rovers do not have one player in the Exiles squad list.  The team most dependent upon its overseas contingent can’t even turf out a guy for a rag tag bunch of mercenaries.  What does that say about Rovers’ Super League so far?  Here’s a chance to make a change and let the boo boys go mental in the South Stand.  Leeds.

Catalans Dragons v Crusaders
Not only did last week’s heroics mean a double over Wigan they enabled the Dragons to move into fifth, two points above Leeds.  Can Catalans hold onto that spot?  Yes they can.  They can because I foresee Leeds having a few more hiccups whereas Catalans have managed to find some consistency.  Cellar dwellers Crusaders can be cannon fodder if you’re on your game and T-Rob has to make sure his troops erase any complacency.  It should be relatively straightforward to do but I will read more into a good performance from Catalans than I would normally because dealing with the little lads is often a better indicator of your professionalism and potential than beating the school yard bullies.  Catalans.

Hull v Harlequins RL
Recently I’ve had a pretty good run on the old predictions front barring the odd wild shout e.g. Harlequins RL last week which was admittedly an opinion inspired more by hope than logic or intuition.  Still I’ve a chance to rectify that whirlwind choice with what should be a fairly comfortable victory for Hull and with one point separating Hull, Bradford, Hull KR and Salford this is also a must win for the home team who might still struggle to catch the parachuting Tigers.  Trips to Bradford, Wakefield and Saints follow this and although two of those games are winnable they are not clear cut games.  Hull.

Warrington v Salford
Oh to be a Salford boy this weekend.  I bet they’re all dying to head over to the HJ to face the on-fire Wolves.  It’s been a while since I’ve seen my team front up knowing that there could be serious carnage on the agenda.  Thinking about it I’d probably have to go back to Super League III when Saints were facing Wigan.  I can’t remember too much about the first game but I distinctly remember the feeling of major league doubt being right at the forefront of my mind prior to the game in Swansea.  My intuition proved right as we managed to avoid a zilling with a penalty with the final score being something like 33-2.  Now with Warrington blitzing our minnows currently I think we must all hope that the Exiles game takes something out of the Wire participants to save our Manchester cousins from ritual slaughter.  Warrington.

Castleford v Wigan
A possible top game negated somewhat by the home team’s depleted front row.  On the plus side is they are likely to only have one participant in the Exiles game.  Wigan came unstuck in France against a spirited team.  Castleford will need to find something similar I feel because the champions should be focused and have the game to shut down the Tigers.  At the same time if the Tigers can find that skill which so embodied their game when in form earlier this season they can pose problems.  Most of us have identified that Wigan are either not as strong as last year or everybody else is better.  Your choice on that and it’s your call on whether Rangi Chase can be that magic on Sunday.  Wigan.

Wakefield v Huddersfield
Tough break for the Giants with Danny Brough’s absence for the next eight weeks.  I am sure we will all be looking at how they cope without their midfield maestro.  As luck would have it the good lord of rugby league has served up somebody who probably won’t lie on the table with an apple in its mouth but could still be stuffed relatively quickly.  It could be closer than we think because of the venue.  Last week Huddersfield looked good enough and I have to go with that.  Huddersfield.

Bradford v St Helens
A close second for my pick of the week.  You have the Potter connection and the past fifteen or so years of rivalry making this one of the more prominent games in the competition.  Okay it has more than a whiff of faded grandeur about it but grandeur is great when you want to hype up games.  I do see a more heated battle if the Bulls can get their act together defensively.  Saints fans were in raptures at some of the vintage play against Leeds and there were flashes of magic there.  Flashes which were also aided by some line ball passes.  For me Saints are in the right place currently.  They’re not blockbusting like Warrington, not fearsome like Huddersfield and not as clinical as Wigan.  What they do have is little bits of each without being the combination.  Do you need to have more than little bits to beat Bradford at the moment?  I don’t think you do.  Saints.

Super League XVI – Round 16

Great news coming out today for Salford and the appointment of a new coach, Matt Parish.  His coaching credentials look interesting rather than mind blowing but he is a new coach and not a hand-me-down from one of the bigger clubs which has to be a good thing.  Like everybody I would love the see more British coaches in the game but we all have to be realistic and recognise that coaching in this country is still behind what it is in Australia.  It stands to reason that the best competition in the world is likely to attract the best coaches and players.  Often I make reference to stateside sports and it’s because if there is one thing they excel in it’s sports.  The best basketball coaches and players participate in the NBA, best baseball players in the MLB (knock the world series for all you like but baseball has a much greater international reach than rugby league currently) and the best American football players in the NFL. If I was a player who wanted to get into coaching over here I’d use my savings and go down under to learn the trade.  With all due respect to many players over here, they haven’t tasted the jailhouse that is the NRL so is it any wonder that we don’t know how to combat it or to emulate it?

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Catalan Dragons v Wigan
Having levelled out for a couple of weeks Catalans face the champions in what should be a revenge match supreme.  Wakefield might not be the most expensive of scalps but it was good to see the Dragons avoid two defeats in a row after the mauling at Leeds.  Wigan have not lost since the Catalans shock and have rattled up some seriously impressive wins, allowing them to slowly move up to near the top of the table with that game against Cas still in hand.  Their dismissing of Hull KR was expected and impressive at the same time.  Say what you like about Pat Richards.  He isn’t Eric Grothe or Martin Offiah but he is perfect in the modern game for finishing.  Close to the line or in the air he comes up with the goods and has been a great signing for them and you have to anticipate him being a big part of the game plan on Saturday.  Visiting Catalans is a tremendous experience and with a few more able bodies returning to their line up last week this could well be as great as the last contest between these two.  My thoughts are that Wigan are just a bit too hot currently.  I’ve said before they are perhaps the smoothest team when it comes to moving the ball and I’m interested to know how the Dragons plan to counter that.  It is a game of enthusiasm versus quality with elements of both on each side.  If Catalans do manage the win it will be down to that energy, hustle and magi but I just have the feeling that Wigan will have more than matched them in those areas come the end of eighty minutes.  Wigan.

Crusaders v Warrington
A decent effort from the boys from Wales last week as a good second half showing rewarded a relatively competent performance.  It wasn’t enough in the end and I fear for their safety against the league leaders, who have stated their intentions by planting a flag firmly on the peak on Super League.  It is an incredible run of form for Tony Smith’s men and no real surprise given the guy’s track record in this competition.  Only complacency can stop Warrington and the loss at home to Hull seems to have shaken that out of their system.  Warrington.

Salford v Wakefield
Here’s the game that you’re looking for.  Initially you are repulsed by the possibility of having to watch this but attach the importance of the licences to the game and we have a mini epic on our hands.  Both teams have won more games away from home so what does that mean?  Salford’s two home wins have been against Yorkshire opposition and Wakefield’s three wins have been at  Catalans, Hull and Castleford.  Before even noticing the relative home and away forms I would have leaned towards Salford.  It’s a difficult decision and a game that could be right in the balance until the end.  Pushed to choose I like Salford’s fluidity more than Wakefield’s spirit.  Salford.

St Helens v Leeds
A very close call for game of the round, relegated on the back of missing or declining stars (your choice of phrase).  Leeds were rocketed out of the ground on Friday by Warrington and must be fearful of another loss this week against a Saints team which is still managing to pick up two points frequently enough to allow them to keep in touch with the top three.  Losing on Friday for either team will put too big a game between them and the top spot for Saints or the top three for Leeds.  Competition is intense above these two and there will be too much to claw back should things go awry on Friday.  Saints reliance on a strong pack has been evident for five seasons or so now which go head into the weakness of Leeds I believe.  Before even starting this blog a few years ago I commented on forums about the lack of yardage machines in the Leeds pack and it remains an issue of serious concern for Leeds fans.  Saints are beatable as last week’s relatively close scoreline suggests and I fancy a fairly free flowing game for the Friday night viewing public.  Saints.

Harlequins RL v Bradford
The Harlequins RL horror show continues although the Bulls represent a genuine opportunity for arresting this slump.  Harlequins RL haven’t won since playing Saints in round five and that is awful.  Almost as bad, Bradford stopped their own nosedive by beating Salford and there must be some confidence to be had from that.  Where do you pluck a win from when you’re having a mare?  I’ve backed Potter’s appointment and his team hasn’t performed to expectations.  A game like this is perfect to build confidence but who can do it?  Harlequins RL have one win at home and the Bulls one win away (Crusaders) so I am going to go against the grain and plump for a doubling of that home victory.  Harlequins RL.

Hull K R v Hull
For a change the Hull derby doesn’t take top billing only because of Rovers poor season.  Having not yet recovered from the early loss of Michael Dobson, Rovers are limping from win to loss on too regular a basis.  Normally I would back them in this fixture and even with their weak form I am tempted.  Tempted why?  Is it as much down to Hull’s inability to retain some consistency or is it the home field advantage?  A bit of both for me.  I’m going to go for Rovers because they showed some fight in the first half at Wigan and as surprising as Hull have been at times (only one of their away defeats has been by more than two scores) I still question their resilience.  I still see Rovers as being the more efficient team and won’t you just know that despite their lumbering season they would draw level on points with their rivals if they do win.  Rovers.

Huddersfield v Castleford
As predicated Castleford have fallen from the top of the tree which is perfectly understandable given their run of games (Saints (A), Leeds (H), Warrington (A) ) and I don’t see them getting much change out of Huddersfield who now must be one of your choices for the top four, if not the top three.  Victory is essential for the Giants who will put some daylight between themselves and Saints or Leeds by winning.  A deeper squad and great coaching should see those two points home.  Huddersfield.

Super League XVI – Round 15

After another weekend of scintillating cup RL it’s back to a round of games where the intensity may be lacking.  This is no shame on the competition as it’s just one of those weeks where the fixtures don’t throw up as many humdingers as usual.   Before I go on though, a quick word about the possible last game played by Keith Senior.  Tool or not, Senior played in the first ever Super League game, was involved in the first ever Super League instant video ref decision and also scored in that first Super League match (I think he might even have had the first ever video ref decision awarded try too).  Make of that what you will.

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Leeds v Warrington
Not a difficult selection for first seeing as Leeds have won four in a row since shipping a shedful against Huddersfield.  The more perceptive Leeds fan will rightly be saying it’s a start even with Catalans being one of the names that was taken apart.  Warrington will prove to be a tougher tea as their attack is currently dazzling.  So who has the upper hand on Friday?  Both teams have won well and both include victories against teams which were ultimately less than stellar opposition.  Warrington have to be fresh, exuding confidence and still have the tightest defence which means it will be a big win for Leeds if they come up with the goods.  As Saints sit two points above them a loss could allow a gap of three points to open up between them and the top four which would place even greater emphasis on next week’s trip to Saints.  Like the more perceptive Leeds fan a couple of results don’t mean that much until you’ve tested yourself and this test requires the big guns to fire and there are too many back in repair for Leeds to really push Warrington isn’t there?  Warrington.

St Helens v Crusaders
Potential for being a bit more exciting than anticipated here as Saints welcome a few players back and Crusaders take advantage of a week on the sidelines.  Still Saints should have too much and as long as complacency doesn’t creep in this should be relatively comfortable and sets the home team up nicely for their next two visitors to Widnes, Leeds and Wigan.  Saints.

Hull v Huddersfield
Yes this is the one and SKY score again.  After our weekly headliner this is the next prime time game and I think this is one that is going the full eighty minutes.  Hull are in a good position for a run at fifth although the next month could also jam that transmission.  If Hull can topple Huddersfield they still have to face three road games out of the next four with Rovers and Saints being amongst those.  Ouch.  In round three Huddersfield managed to not lose and I am intrigued as to just how both teams are going to stack up in this one.  Huddersfield have to be on top of the world after thrashing Saints and handling Catalans.  If that confidence is true this will be a Huddersfield win because it’s hard to play that well and not keep it up when you hit a groove.  Add into that the great news of Nathan Brown’s extension and the atmosphere this week should have been electric.  Whilst the Giants have been sipping champagne and eating grapes Hull have been toiling away to make sure their six match unbeaten run continues.  Yes, you read that right.  Hull have not been beaten in the last six games.  Now, balance that with Huddersfield’s form and tell me you don’t have a Catherine wheel precariously pinned to a post.  Huddersfield.

Bradford v Salford
I imagine Mick Potter was tearing his hair out last week when Raynor’s wild attempt at dislodging the ball missed and gave the cameras a shocker to view.  A disappointing way to lose the game especially after a great effort in the first half when the Bulls belied their form and looked good value to pull off an upset at the break.  Sadly, as Salford fans know all too well, there are numerous ways for a struggling team to find ways to lose and that’s exactly what Raynor’s move was.  Bradford can take heart from what happened and try to reverse the horror show we witnessed in round ten.  Surely the Bulls will be determined to avoid a repetition and I like that because it’s a test of Salford’s own mental resilience.  Bradford are sure to come out firing yet this is a team you humbled recently so there is no reason to fear them.  Can the Salford coaching team keep their team’s focus on that?  I don’t think they can.  Bradford.

Castleford v Harlequins RL
It was a time for heroes on Sunday and now it is time for consistency soldiers.  Amazingly Harlequins RL are still above three teams in the table so go on coach Powell get that stuck up on the wall of the changing room.  Despite how badly you’ve played you’re still not the worst and if you can string a couple of passes together or, more importantly, tackle players you might just spring a surprise here because Castleford are stuttering.  It was bound to happen after such a good start and schedule.  Six points for and 110 against in the last two Super League games put into context the performance from last week.  Wakefield battled hard and the Tigers had to win that game.  Fortunately for Terry Harlequins RL are less enthusiastic than Wakefield and if the opening rounds Powell team was here I’d go for them but even a declining Castleford team should have too much here.  Castleford.

Wakefield v Catalans Dragons
It looked like Catalans were experiencing some fatigue before the last round and so it proved as Leeds put paid to any serious top four aspirations for T-Rob and his boys.  Perfect opportunity to get back on track.  However, Catalans have lost a couple, might have some more out and could be tasking a risk on not fully fit players.  Of course Wakefield are going through the same but being at home can hide a couple of those risks whereas away from home they can be ruthlessly exposed.  So whilst I know Catalans have some magic in there I love the way this Wakefield team battles and even in the darkest of days I cannot question their mindset and although this probably won’t carry them into the play offs but it will always win admirers.  Wakefield.

Wigan v Hull KR
As rugby union continues to fail to capture the general public’s imagination the local Victorians at RFU HQ must have thought they’d scored a blinder when their edict to “get us another northern monkey” brought up Willie Mason for the Barbarians game.  I mean there are so many angles to go at this I feel bad for just laughing at him jumping straight into a representative side without having so much as touched a rugby ball, either code, for a year.  Good luck to the guy and I’ll be interested how the elite classes will adapt to his less than elite off field behaviour.  Come to think of it if the can translate that into on field I think he’ll fit right in.  Wigan.

Super League XVI – Round 14

Welcome back.  After a week of cup games (I don’t preview them to give myself the occasional break) we’re back in the big time.  It’s been yet another interesting week with the new NRL pay deal which threatens to dominate both codes in the southern hemisphere and consequently is great news for our sport.  How can it not be?  Less quota players over here, more chances for our kids to come through and at the same time attracts even more of those huge south sea islanders down to Sydney for trials.  Great stuff.

Before we start I’d like to thank you for your continued readership in a world full of blogs.  Admittedly RL isn’t overwhelmed by us but I still try to make this a little bit different to what else is out there.  Over the past year XIII Oceans has linked to the best virals, films, music, political issues/comment, what the future holds for nuclear waste and James Graham dancing with his cougar.  Please enjoy the links and enjoy your rugby league because we all do.

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Huddersfield v St Helens
What a bell ringer for Saturday night.  Having settled down to watch the FA Cup Final (which may still be going on by the time this one kicks off) you can treat yourself to what could shape up to be one of the games of the season.  We no longer refer to Huddersfield as pretenders because not only do they sit in second they also beat big guns nowadays.  Even with injuries Saints threaten to pose a problem on Saturday on the back of what looks like a rejuvenated team spirit.  Very difficult to call because I am buying into that team spirit which isn’t to say Huddersfield don’t enjoy the same.  They do.  Without that Saints spirit this is a clear home win which is understandable when you remember that the Giants have lost only once at home this year and that was to Wigan, a match in which they could have won if they’d executed their plays more effectively.  Should be a belter.  Huddersfield.

Crusaders v Wakefield
Good effort and lovely little bit of self-destruction from the Crusaders last week.  How anybody can lash out like last week is something I can’t comprehend.  Definitely issues of unresolved anger there so if you’re reading Iestyn give me a call and I’ll come down and do some work with Cahill to right those wrongs.  Genuine offer and I’ll do it for free because that’s the kind of good egg I am.  Wakefield continue to defy the odds and I love Kear’s comments about him enjoying this season as much as any gone previously.  I can understand his joy because achieving against the odds is far more rewarding than achieving with the odds in your favour.  Long may it continue and it might just on Friday.  Could be a nail biter in Wrexham.  Crusaders.

Leeds v Catalans Dragons
In any other week this would probably have rattled the top spot and there will be plenty of interested observers waiting to hear the outcome on Friday evening.  We all know where we are with this game.  Catalans are undefeated for the past six games whilst Leeds stumble around and pick up what could be crucial injuries.  Given that Brent Webb is a pale shadow of the player who used to fling out try creating passes a few years I don’t think he’ll be missed because Lee Smith is more than capable especially on the penalty.  Got to love Ganson last week about Smith “Apparently I’m to blame”.  Great stuff.  Danny McGuire being out is a totally different situation though.  Big loss even if Sinfield can negate that absence.  I am not being brave here by going for Leeds because I think Catalans are running out of gas (Dureau is set to miss out too) and although they could bring the home crowd into it by starting off well, the South Stand aren’t going to allow another half-arsed outing from Brian and Jimmy’s boys.  Leeds.

Salford v Hull
Slipping under the radar is this hidden cracker.  The loss of McRae is the right move and have given Salford a momentum they were struggling to obtain earlier in the season.  Similarly, Hull have found something to get motoring on.  One point might separate the teams in the table but look at the points differential.  Big difference.  Is that enough to indicate which way this game is going to go?  I’m not sure but it is enough to say that Hull can go into this with confidence.  Prior to the game in London Salford had featured in four consecutive games where a team had scored fifty points although only one of those was Salford.  Even with home advantage that’s pretty poor and as lovely as some of that Salford rugby has been it’s too much to back them.  Hull.

Warrington v Castleford
Friday night football throws up a potentially great game with the current league leaders against former league leaders.  The former league leaders will be looking to arrest a slide that wasn’t unexpected.  With fifteen points in the bag already there is a strong chance the Tigers will be seeing play off action.  Warrington, on the other hand, share the lead with four other teams which is something most of us have forgotten.  Four teams sharing the top spot.  How incredible is that?  Add to that the three teams below the top four are also level on points.  Amazing isn’t it?  Yes.  As exciting as this all is and as excellent as Castleford have been I do not see another two points for the visitors here.  In fact I’m envisioning one of those drubbings were a genuine contender puts on a show for us all to admire.  Warrington.

Hull KR v Bradford
With rumours in the national press that Willie Mason has had his wages stopped for allegedly approaching one of the French RU clubs this season is falling apart for Justinho.  There’s a tricky cup tie to come in the next round and currently Rovers are three points off eighth and look like they’ve not even set up base camp yet in preparation for their ascent.  Fortunately for Rovers fans the Bulls are in town and if there’s one thing we’ve noticed this season it’s Potter has not got to grips with their defence.  Last week’s civil war at The New Shay was further evidence and it isn’t looking good.  Until the Bulls start tackling I can’t give them any preference away from home which is perfect for Rovers.  Rovers.

******BUMDINGER OF THE WEEK******

Wigan v Harlequins RL
Straightforward for Wigan.  No point in even debating the game.  I will mention the Total RL poll though which reveals the poor insight many RL supports have on the game.  When asked about what would improve attendances the winning answer was ‘Hire a big PR firm’ which is not a bad idea as such.  However, the lowest scoring results was ‘Getting a more experienced coach’.  Now I am not advocating replacing Powell but you will only start to get crowds when you start to win.  People do not flock through the turnstiles to watch the ordinary.  It is beyond obvious.  If Harlequins RL start to win then go and get the PR firm (which I think Super League should support but then I’ve always been an advocate of having a central marketing facility that works on behalf of all clubs promoting the game).  Wigan.

Super League XVI – Round 12

Do you really need me to talk about last weekend’s sensational programme?  All three of the most recent league leaders defeated.  How often does that happen and such in short period of time?  Rarely.  Are we on the verge of that breakthrough season where a new name is etched into Super League history?  Even if a regular name pops up at the end of the season I am sure most of us are delighted to watch this season unfold.  It’s been a brilliant opening third and one that after initially slipping under the radar has caught the public’s imagination.  Who wants to go and watch a murder mystery when you already know who the killer is?  Nobody.  We want everything to be in the balance right up to the final touch and right now that’s how it’s working, and in some cases, quite literally.

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Catalans Dragons v Huddersfield
For those Giants fans lucky enough to be going they should be in for a treat and it’s sad that we won’t be able to watch this one with them.  Admittedly at the beginning of the season you probably would not have picked this game out as your prime time fixture so we can’t complain.  Where do we start with this?  The league leaders in the form team’s back yard.  What a mouth watering prospect.  Huddersfield’s stingy defence being tested out by Scott Dureau and that back-to-beef Catalans pack.  Confidence amongst Catalans must be sky high and with Crusaders dumping on a complacent Giants team I think we can expect a more focused approach this week.  Nathan Brown pointed the finger at his team after that Crusaders result which was a good move.  He would have done his team no favours by attaching too much blame at the foot of their late arrival in Wrexham.  At times players need to be held accountable and this was certainly one of them.  So with a Huddersfield team deep in concentration can Catalans maintain their seven match unbeaten run?  I’m going to go with the Giants.  I know the weather was poor on Monday and it played its part in the result but they also looked like a team which is ready to be beaten and ready to regain its focus in the same way that Huddersfield did.  Huddersfield.

Castleford v Leeds
Three heartbreak results in consecutive weeks means the Tigers have slipped down to fifth and those last two have to have an impact alongside Craig Huby’s absence.  At Saints, Castleford were outstanding with Chase and Orr producing one of the best visiting half back displays for many a year and they are sure to give the local bully a test.  Had Huby been playing I might have looked at Castleford and to beat Leeds you need to be able to physically dominate them up front.  I think it’s too much to ask now so although I think we will be in for a cracker I expect it’s going to be one of those Leeds shoot outs where Sheriff Sinfield stands tallest at the end.  Leeds.

Harlequins RL v Salford
After crazily going for the two away teams I have to go for Harlequins RL this week.  Rob Powell must be getting desperate now and that could be a big problem on Saturday.  A team which gets desperate will be nervous with confidence so fragile that it can shatter easily when pressure is applied.  Powell has to have been working on that during the week, harnessing potential nervousness into steel city defence and team spirit.  This team does not want to lose another game and that can be a big motivator for players.  Salford might be a bag of donuts at times but there is plenty of skill in there for them to shift up towards the top eight.  I just fancy that Harlequins RL can make this into a dogs of war battle where their own attack can get them ahead early and get them in control.  Harlequins RL.

Bradford v Warrington
Decent enough result at Catalans after losing another high octane Airport derby.  Great to see the stands packed again with some great vocal support as well.  If you know some Bulls fans pass on my thanks for lifting this club again.  Unfortunately the Bulls will need to get some pretty quickly or they run the risk of losing that goodwill again.  On the flip side there is Hull KR(A), Salford(H) and Harlequins RL(A) up in the league so a chance to get some form.  I fear for the Bulls on Sunday though because they have fallen away a bit over the past month especially as we know that Tony Smith rarely gives up back-to-back games.  His team were sloppy against Hull and I think it’s interesting that the two front runners of Super League XVI which haven’t been in this kind of race before, Wire and Huddersfield, have experienced complacency over the Easter weekend.  It’s an important learning lesson on your way to the top which both Smith and Brown know.  It is also the reason why I expect a relatively comfortable visit to Bradford for Wire.  Warrington.

Crusaders v Wigan
Brilliant result for Crusaders on Good Friday and the expected loss at Leeds.  Can’t see much opportunity for change out of Wigan who came out on top from that derby epic.  Madge will be pleased to see his side keep Wakefield out because this side’s strength is defence.  Can Crusaders compete around the ruck?  They will need it and as heroic as the Giants win was Wigan are tuned up and experienced enough to prevent that.  Wigan.

Wakefield v Hull KR
Rovers’ top four hopes lie in tatters thanks to Michael Dobson’s absence and the big money Mason fiasco.  Conversely Wakefield are performing miracles with an astonishing four wins which is as many as big spenders Rovers and Salford.  Both those teams splashed out to get some real quality and yet John Kear’s mastery of getting extra out of rag tag rejects is doing more.  What price John Kear as the new coach at Salford?  I’d give him a shot if I was at The Willows helm.  Rovers for me on the back of Dobson who should find a bit more room than he did against Hull’s monsters.

Hull v St Helens
Great chance here for Hull to take an unexpected two points.  A couple of weeks ago this is a clear away win but now?  Saints are playing with a lot of grit and determination and it will be much needed as their half back injury crisis hits peak panic.  Can Hull take advantage?  You have to think that without the right prompting Saints are unlikely to be rattling up the points and even though Hull will similarly be pressed for direction the home factor, confidence from the amazing Warrington win and a physical pack they should be able to atone for some earlier poor results.  Hull.

Super League XVI – Round 11

Welcome to the big weekend.  Two games in four days for most and it’s on the back of some scintillating rugby.  I’ve had a great week watching the highlights from the last round of games, particularly those from The Stoop where some some great tries were scored.  I haven’t seen Castleford look as exciting since Stuart Raper.  Steve Menzies almost got caught on his intercept by easing off the gas and to add to the laughter I read the League Express letters page.  Amidst the usual tribal banter were two pearlers as one fan questioned the integrity of the Albert Goldthorpe Medal voting as a player didn’t get top points, suggesting it might be a deliberate ruse to deny him top spot.  Great one, trumped by the guy who said the reason why Leeds had stopped winning is because refs have been instructed to blow for forward passes this year.  Brilliant.

Before we got into this week’s previews though I thought it would be interesting to analyse Brian McDermott’s post-match comments from last week.  Despite my open doubts about his coaching ability I do like the man and find his choice of words fascinating at times.

“I am concerned. Concerned for a group of players who are desperate to do better.  I am not confident of much at the moment but what I am confident of is that there’s a group of people there, staff and players included, who are in a place where they don’t want to be.  They’ve a massive work rate and great desire and at moment it’s puzzling because on game day it’s just not happening for us.”

What do you think?  There’s a degree of disassociation littered throughout.  McDermott does not place himself in there by using the more collective term of “we”.  I like the way he’s saying it.  I also like the choice of we because it emphasises a more complete team which does not mean his comments are the opposite.  By disassociating himself he sounds like an independent observer who can see what the players are going through but is also able to be less emotional about it.  By doing so he is hoping to giving his team some confidence and in a game where mental toughness is as important as physical or technical prowess it’s a point of note.  Where his comments raise eyebrows is with that latter part of the last sentence.  Puzzling is not a word you should be throwing out there because its laden with personal and professional doubt.  He might not have wanted to say that but it’s spoken right there and that’s a concern for Leeds.  If your coach is questioning himself the players will start to even if they won’t openly express it.

Super League Power Rankings (as voted last week):

Huddersfield
Warrington
Wigan
St Helens
Castleford
Leeds
Catalans

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Wigan v St Helens
Rugby league’s own ‘El Classico’, Th’Classic.  Wigan can’t buy a win at home and Saints have won five in a row which means we should be in for a cracker on Friday afternoon.  The champions do not give in easily in this game with an excellent record against Saints irrespective of Saints’ fortunes.  Saints fortunes?  Okay they have won a few in a row and look like they have found their feet with the ball too.  Jonny Lomax has provided the wizardry since the Easmond saga and he will be thrust into the limelight as Saints key half back with the previously supporting newcomer, Gaskell, missing for six weeks.  At Hull KR you could see the quality of Wigan’s ability to shift the ball wide which has been missing a bit this year.  It’s a flowing and natural style which is the smoothest in the league.  All of which brings us back down to that battle in the middle of the park.  Saints quality in moving the ball forward is there for all to see and was stopped by Wigan last year in a very effective manner.  With the changes around the PTB questions have surfaced around Wigan’s defence and whether it has hit them a bit harder than expected.  Me?  I think it’s as much an issue of form than it is rule interpretations.  Other teams have shown you can disjoint Saints by winning that collision, something which was evident earlier in the season.  Saints have every right to be confident about coming away with the two points and if they do it will be off the back of the confidence they have gained from knocking over a few less intense opponents.  For me the biggest mental step us has to be with Wigan.  There will be nervous energy off the pitch and it’s an energy that could just as easily be harnessed by a strong start or half-time talk at the back of the stands during haute cuisine time.  It is that tight.  Drive and determination can win the day for Wigan and if they can’t find it on Friday the fans will know.  Wigan.

Bradford v Leeds
Welcome to the Airport derby.  Attendees are reminded of the respective baggage allowance limitations on Thursday.  Neither team is allowed more than four wins this season and additional allowance will only be permitted should your team win.  If you are seated in the middle you may notice to the side of you people leaving in droves should your team be getting flattened.  All attendees must have taken their position approximately two hours before departure.  As it is expected that our in-flight drama will fill the entire eighty minutes of activity there will be little time for breath although refreshments are available at the customary exorbitant prices.  No passengers allowed.  Leeds.

Hull v Hull KR
I don’t know about you but this is a game I look forward to seeing every time it is on.  Hull can be playing garbage or Rovers can be in one of those win-one-lose-one streaks they so often go on because it doesn’t matter.  This time both teams have been playing garbage so we’re in for a treat.  Whenever these two teams front up you can guarantee atmosphere which gives us drama despite what can sometimes be a bit of a mess with the ball.  Is there a bigger question around this though?  Not do you let Mason go (or cash in on him if there’s a fee involved)?  But just how much better does Paul Cooke look with hair?  Makes you wonder what Keith Senior would be like without his trademark sex offender haircut.  Hull KR.

Crusaders v Huddersfield
Not too much to talk about for the only one that isn’t a derby other than Huddersfield planting a flag firmly at the top of Super League after metaphorically thrashing Leeds for their first win there in colour.  Fireworks aplenty resulted in Nathan Brown’s plea to the officials to protect players and whilst we have to admit this is a tough game I am on his side.  There is a world of difference of applying pressure to outlaw behaviour.  In the past this would be the type of game a pretender loses or struggles with so as a contender I now expect a comfortable win and with Salford at home on Monday there shouldn’t be too big a distraction.  Huddersfield.

Harlequins RL v Catalans Dragons
Harlequins RL late unsalvaging of a point last Friday in my game of the round has delayed this game’s true title of the Down And Out derby.  Their draw means we can be a little bit more excited for the Two Cities derby.  In terms of form the two teams couldn’t be further apart and again defence will be the focus point for either team’s progression.  Isn’t it funny how quickly confidence and consequently form can change?  Sports are often exhibitions in confidence and momentum which is why we can learn a lot about our own human psychological make up.  If you either think that you can or think that you can’t you’re probably right is a notable phrase and right now Catalans Dragons know they can win this.  Will Harlequins RL have the same strength of belief?  I talked last week about Leeds’ fragility and was proven right as Huddersfield shook them to the ground with a great first half zilling.  Factor that sort of mental deterioration to a team which hasn’t won in five games whilst shipping, on average, 44 points.  Can you really back against Catalans?  I don’t think I can.  Catalans.

Salford v Warrington
Congratulations to Salford who were officially on fire.  Got to feel sorry for those who abandoned that glittering performance to watch their football team suffer a historic loss at Wembley.  If you were one of those who went to The Willows I wish you more success and I want to wish it this weekend.  Can Salford really carry that form into the Ship Canal derby?  Well Warrington got into a good groove last week blitzing the Crusaders and they have superior fire power and resistance.  Bradford wilted and look like a team which is still struggling to gel.  It reminded me or Predator as each try went over and everybody looked around at each other to try and understand what was going on.  Warrington will not be so dumbstruck.  Warrington.

Castleford v Wakefield
A chance for £1m derby revenge and boy will it be sweet for Castleford.  Fair play to Wakefield and their fans because neither have quite given up the ghost in the way Halifax did a few years back.  Now, having been in a similar position many a times myself when I was a teenager, I do not envy going to your big rivals knowing that you are likely to face a tonking.  Similarly it is a local rivalry and strange things can happen.  Watching Wakefield this year it’s more likely to be The Twilight Zone than Tales Of The Unexpected.  Castleford.

Due to personal commitments and the silly two games in three days approach I am unlikely to be able to produce a preview for Bank Holiday Monday’s games.  If I can I will.

Super League XVI – Round 10

We are approximately a third of the way through the competition now so who currently heads up your power rankings.  You can vote by selecting the four teams for the final four.

Catalans Dragons v Hull
With Martin Gleeson joining such illustrious names as Paul Cooke, Sean Long, Gareth Raynor and Jordan Tansey it’s all looking a bit Mean Streets over at the KC.  Why not go the whole hog and bring Cooke back?  Like Real Madrid, Hull are going for proven high profile performers although it’s a bit more El Juvenilos than El Galaticos.  As Hull becomes the graveyard equivalent for Super League players as Super League can be to the NRL, Catalans Dragons have gone full faith into the spirit of Australia driven by a controlled French aggression.  In destroying a depleted Wigan side Catalans have propelled themselves from having a fluky win at Wire to genuine play off contenders.  There is a real chance of the Dragons breaking their home duck and with some difficult games to come they need to snaffle two points here to give the home fans something.  Can we expect a bumper crowd and is this really in the bag?  I’m hopeful on the former but don’t see the latter.  Hull are facing only their fourth trip of the year and have looked better away from the KC so this is no foregone conclusion.  Catalans.

Harlequins RL v Castleford
Technically you could argue quite easily about second travelling to sixth as being the game of the round but after the headliner this is the game I wish I was attending.  This is a rich fixture after the two teams respective starts and then contrasting fortunes, particularly with the two Dannys milling around as well.  Throw in a bit of Steele Retchless and we have our headliner.  It seems a long time ago now since Harlequins RL triumphed over Leeds and Saints yet that can remain a focus and a reminder of how this team can play.  Matterson has said it his defence which is keeping his side in games and he will need it again to come out on top here.  If Harlequins RL can hold onto possession they will pressure the Tigers for the points and with everybody waiting for the Castleford bubble to burst in the same way that Harlequins RL’s did we should be in for a cracker.  Castleford.

Hull KR v Wigan
Well, well, well.  Who da thunk it?  Great win for Rovers and another weak home display from Wigan.  This would normally set this up for a must watch game but it feels like every time in the past when I’ve expected Rovers to give Wigan a good game they’ve folded under the pressure.  With Wigan undefeated away from the Stade De La Crust and Rovers either conceding thirty or scoring thirty surely they’re less likely to to do the latter.  Wigan.

Leeds v Huddersfield
Leeds coach Brian McDermott said “I think this is the first week so far this season that we’ve said, ‘that just wasn’t good enough, what we did there (at Hull KR)’.  Heartening words for the Leeds faithful.  What wasn’t good enough will not do this Friday even if I expect a return to winning ways for the home side.  Huddersfield were outstanding last week against Warrington with one of the performances of the season.  Defensively again the Giants were brilliant and their play with the ball was considerably better than it has been, perhaps at its best since Brown arrived, Nathan that is.  There has to be enthusiastic home support and if Leeds can get over the line a couple of times early doors they can feed off this and make it a trip to forget.  Fortunately for Huddersfield the reverse is also true.  Get on top of Leeds and the home fans will turn because they must be at tipping point or thereabouts.  I can sense the crackling atmospheric tension already.  Leeds.

St Helens v Wakefield
If ever there was a minnow who manages to give it their all when they travel to Saints it is Wakefield.  Year after year Kear’s lively attacking usually poses problems for Saints and that is what must have been on the mind of the SKY fixture selections because this could well be one of the worst Friday night picks for a long time (it is comfortably the least attractive fixture this round).  Perfect for those currently campaigning on behalf of Saints sneaking up the table and into third on the back of beating teams with little form.  Saints.

Warrington v Crusaders
Put to the sword by Saints last week in a blistering first half showing, Crusaders now face the task of going to a Warrington team who have lost two in a row after putting their pint glasses down.  Can Iestyn make it three in a row for Tony Smith?  No.  Warrington.

Salford v Bradford
Not a bad selection for your Saturday night’s viewing.  Strangely SKY have asked Salford to play at the same time as the big FA Cup semi final so it’s gone to a bit Old Mother Hubbard at The Willows.  If you’re one of those viewers who flicks between the two channels this is going to be a tricky one.  Both games have potential for being thrillers but are more likely to be messy conservative affairs.  Bradford have lost three out of four on the road and Salford have won three out of their last four at home.  Easy bet?  Salford.

Super League XVI – Round 8

An enthralling game opened up the last round where Warrington placed openly their intentions and expectations for Super League XVI.  It was a big game performance and one in which defence was key.  Seeing Wigan come up against a defence that wasn’t on the rung below was interesting and a hope for the other contenders, if they can get it together.  Brett Finch‘s off-the-pace showing shouldn’t worry the home fans too much because he helped avoid getting zilled. It has been an eye-opening couple of weeks with several against the grain results.

******GAME OF THE ROUND******

Bradford v Harlequins RL
Strange choice for my pick of the games when Leeds v Wigan usually churns up some good entertainment irrespective of form.  After a good start Harlequins RL have tripped into a bit of a pothole which could quickly turn into a sinkhole if they don’t get a grip.  Two winnable home games follow against Castleford and Catalans Dragons but neither are certainties perhaps emphasising how they need to stabilise performance now.  The Bulls are two points behind and will say they’ve had a tough run so there’s an opportunity for foundations here before the airport derby.  Potter is getting mixed results so you have to look for that improvement in patches.  It’s there.  It will gel as we go along and a front up against what should be a highly motivated Harlequins RL defence we get to where we should be.  This is the importance of the psychological aspect of the game.  Who’ll get the shift in their’s?  Bradford’s important to build momentum and Harlequins RL to stifle their own negative direction?  Bulls by a score in a nervy match.

Hull FC v Castleford
A 1-6 start for Hull would have been a boardroom call for a first discussion with Agar.  Scoring 40 away from your pad is a good result but how much confidence does it give you if you were lucky to get away with it?  You need to have credibility in the first instance to get a significant lift off it I think.  Consider Wigan rescuing the points when they welcomed Hull a couple of rounds ago.  Winning in such dramatic style when you are a team with pedigree we assume it is the team’s character because they have done it before.  When the same happens to you when you haven’t shown anything else in the year, it’s a less accurate assumption to make which is where Hull are for me.  They can take some spirit from there just don’t be reliant upon it because you’re still starting from scratch mentally in the next game.  Castleford kept up their 100% home record with a worrying exposure of the Crusaders.  Isn’t it great to see a half back take on the line in the way that Danny Orr has been doing since he’s come back.  As a proponent of misleading defences with dummy passes in my youth there is nowhere near enough of it going on now.  I don’t mean those half-hearted dummies where the player is running at 2/3 tilt and slips the hand with no intention of passing.  Great to see and as Castleford will have some mental fragility about being away from home this should be another close, tense encounter.  Have to go with Hull even if I think Castleford will show they can compete on the road.

Leeds v Wigan
Already this year we have seen a fair number of mighty tussles.  Can the north’s glamour clubs treat us to another?  Looking at it with positive eyes they certainly can.  Leeds have already had a couple of pit stops and to Wigan’s surprise so have they.  Who will suffer engine trouble this time?  Will neither?  I am hoping for the latter because the neutral loves these clashes.  Even if you have a resentment towards both we all adore seeing them serve up one of those full-blooded battles.  Leeds are very capable of putting points on anybody but where is the defence?  Not one performance this season has inspired any real confidence in Leeds.  Dismantling Salford or Wakefield is nothing at the moment so this becomes another big test for Leeds.  They are currently 0-2 in big games.  Without that resistance Wigan should be able to keep the points total of their opponents low enough for them to outlast Leeds on Friday.  Wigan by just under a score.

St Helens v Hull KR
With what has happened to these two teams so far a possible big clash has become a filler fixture for the round.  Saints have struggled against Rovers when Michael Dobson has guided them around Knowsley Road, however he’s injured, Rovers have nose dived and Saints claimed their first home win.  One to rent out on video this.  Saints by just over a score.

Salford v Crusaders
At first glance this is one to avoid and there is plenty of potential for it to turn into one of those Saturday night error fests.  What makes this a bit different is what happened at Cardiff.  Harris’ guys really turned on the style and torched Salford’s weak defence.  Since then they haven’t won whilst the glimpses of good attacking play we saw from Salford has come to the fore with excellent wins at Rovers and in France.  Even though it’s being thought, outside of the forums, I haven’t seen much discussion about how it has coincided with McRae’s absence.  Can’t back against Salford after two first rate wins.  Salford by two scores.

Huddersfield v Wakefield
For the third home game in succession Wakefield crossed the try line just once.  Not play off form.  Pressure must ease when they are on the road with two wins at difficult places in Catalans and Hull.  Can’t see much for Wakefield here.  Huddersfield by more than a couple of scores.

Warrington v Catalans Dragons
Tony Smith has set his stall out.  There will be no hesitation with his side this year.  He wants the title and the team is emitting an aura of belief that ties in perfectly with his ambitions for them.  Catalans are now drifting to nowheresville and with a trip to Wigan to follow they’re now entering a long season.  Warrington by plenty but not 80.