Six weeks ago we stunned the bookies and the pundits with a comfortable ten point win over the high flying Warrington Wolves. Once again the smart money has been put on the Cheshire side as they seek revenge and try to keep the pressure on league leaders Wigan Warriors.
The Rhinos season looks, once again, to lay in tatters with Kylie Leuluai and Brent Webb being added to the long term injury list alongside Kallum Watkins, Rob Burrow and Matt Diskin. Mercifully Ali Lauiti'iti, Rob Burrow and Luke Burgess are all back in light training but none will play any role in this weekends match. With a tough run of games against Warrington, Saints, KR and the Giants our chances of a top four finish are slipping by the week.
Blueys ninteen is; Donald, Delaney, Senior, Hall, McGuire, Buderus, Peacock, Jones-Buchanan, Sinfield, Eastwood, Bailey, Kirke, Ablett, Pitts, Ambler, McShane, Bush, Clarkson, and Smith.
Tony Smith has a near fearsome set of player to pick from with Morley leading from the front and Mather looking to impress in what could be his last run-out against Leeds in Warringtons colours. Smith has fashioned a classy side who are not afraid to throw the ball about and with both sides fully fit this would be a mouthwatering prospect.
The ex-Rhinos coach names his ninteen as; L. Anderson, V. Anderson, Atkins, Bridge, Briers, Carvell, Grix, Harrison, Hicks, Higham, King, Mathers, Monaghan, Morley, Myler, Riley, Solomona, Westwood, and Wood. Ouch!
Three Wolves to watch;
The Rhinos won on their last visit to the Haliwell-Jones with a 20-14 win. In the return fixture at Headingley we won 24-22. This seasons only match-up between the sides was the 26-16 Leeds victory back in May.
The last time that Warrington beat us was the 3rd August 2008, on that occasion by 12-22 in Warrington.
Southstander.com Prediction
The last game that the Wolves lost was the game at Headingley and Tony Smiths side have gone from strength to strength since then, sitting just two points off the top of the pile. With a slightly inferior goal difference to the league leaders they will be looking to make us suffer for having the audacity to have recorded one of their four defeats in 2010. One thing is for certain, the Leeds lads would love nothing better than to do the double over their old boss, but I can't see passion being enough on its own and have gone for a home win.
The forecast suggests sunshine and showers for sunday with a 30% chance of rain, although this is most likely in the morning.
Don't forget your prediction. Enjoy the game and keep everything crossed for a Rhinos win.
Travel safe.
|
