blonde poker forum

Wigan are currently 11/4 with William Hill to finish top in the regular season. Again I see it being a two-horse race for the top spot (three if you include stains).

The key area is the half-backs, and whether they'll gel and if the side will be weaker, and by how much, with the departure of Leuluai and Finch. I'm more optimistic than most about Green joining the club and I think he adds a different dimension to what Wigan had previously in terms of how he plays and what he offers.

Anyone else think that's a good value for a bet, or would everyone be lumping on Warrington at 9/4?

Betting on the Grand Final winner is a bit of a lottery really, or can anyone see decent odds for a bet that can be laid off near the end of the regular season?

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

if you think league is boring union must put you in a coma!

Rugby League: it's better than Rugby Union.

Not exactly a great advert!

To be honest, i don't hate League really, just far too many mismatches in the regular season.

Salary cap/drafting or something is needed to even the playing field.

not much different to any other sport then

There is a salary cap, and that's part of the problem! League struggles to attract any talent from union whilst battling to stop the best talent moving the other way. The NRL has a more attractive offering than over here, but the game's far bigger over there. The suits in charge at Red Hall are doing their level best to destroy a very good product in Super League.


The play off system here is a farce. Teams aren't rewarded for consistency throughout the season and instead the focus is on winning the grand final. So mediocrity is rewarded as long as the side can play well in a handful of matches at the end of the season (as Leeds have shown to be adept at).

All that aside, I still think 11/4 is good value for Wigan to finish the regular season at the top of the table.

The Rugby League version of Bradford City could not beat the Rugby League version of Arsenal.

Absolutely impossible.

Last season the rugby league equivalent of QPR beat the rugby league equivalent of Man U.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/17264196

There was also this:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/17677581

Not sure if that's Bradford beating Arsenal equivalent or not.

As for it being vastly different to football, there are only three sides in the Premier league who are pretty much guaranteed a top four spot, with a group of others fighting it out for the fourth. That's hardly a balanced competition, and could do with a salary cap...

I know your partially trolling so I wont go OTT in my response but this is yet again another comment that has very little substance. Its bordering on the silly.

Over the past 3-4 seasons the top teams have been losing more and more matches and coming back to the rest of the pack. Salary cap means nurturing home talent and keeping them is key to a long term successful team. 3rd in the league lost a 3rd of their games last season, 4th and 5th last almost half! the top two lost over a quarter of their games. Each of the top teams not only lost to so called other bigger teams but the lower ones. Betting on huge underdogs for individual games proved very profitable as people are yet to catch on the 'gap' just is not a great as it once was. With the playoffs it means the actual league title is not hugely important and this has created a closer league in terms of difference in points between alot of teams.

The fact that League does not need to introduce "bonus points" to make the table cram up like union does says alot :~)

You're right, I was drunk and trolling.

Two evenly matched teams do give a good spectacle.

Those examples given by kin excepted, there are too many mismatches though (seems like "weakened teams" was the reason there?)

As Acid pointed out, there were a lot of 'shock' results last season - as the gap between teams isn't as massive as it was (due to salary cap and other rules).  That game against Widnes did have Wigan fielding a weakened side, but Wigan were winning 36-18 before Widnes came back to win 37-36.

Instead of there being one or two teams out on their own, any of the top 8 can beat any of the other top 8 on their day, and the teams below that can also pull out surprises throughout the season.  Far more 'upsets' in Super League than in the Premier League I'd imagine (be good to see the stats).

Anyway, that bet on Wigan at 11/4...?

Yeah, I'm probably living in the past.

I used to price up super League at Blue Squirrel.

I just remember Wigan and St Helens being 40 point favourites for every game except when they played each other!

In the 80s and 90s it definitely was a case of one team massively dominating (Wigan and then Saints), and the league have done a lot to level the playing field - unfortunately, it's keeping all the teams at a lower level, with the drain to union and the NFL. The clubs are finding it very difficult to attract or keep the best players.

there is a salary cap in Union, though a club like Saracens is notorious for circumventing it via sponsor's businesses employing players on a part time basis etc

One of the things I found was it was possible for a superior team in RL to run up the score on a markedly inferior team as when the superior team scores a try, they receive the kick off and can go again....

As the RL boys imply though the gap between top and bottom in the RU Premiership is bigger than ever, whereas I suspect (from a lower base of knowledge) that its narrower in RL these days as a lot of talent drain has gone from the top end of RL

Can't put my finger on why but don't fancy Wigan to finish top, not at that price. Too many fundamental changes maybe.

Looking forward to the new season

Warrington have been doing exactly the same with the salary cap in league.  Players choosing them over other clubs because of 'incentives'.  Red Hall merely look the other way as to have Warrington as a challenge to win the GF is meant to be good for the game.

The cao means that clubs can't just go out and buy the best (unless you're Warrington), which is a good thing.  Clubs with a good academy  are benefiting, but this again is the richer clubs...

Carmont retiring is a big loss, but there are other centres to step up in the club, and talk of a signing as well.

The half-backs of Smith and Green to replace Tommy and Finch will be the big change for me. I actually think Wigan have been lacking a decent kicking game (other than the high kick to Richards in the corner), and Smith and Green might change that, as well as the benefit of Green's pace.

Lima has gone from the pack, but to be honest it looked like he'd left half-way through last season - so no big loss there and there are plenty in the side good enough to step up in the forwards, as well as the new signing Taylor who looks like a really good talent.

If not Wigan, you'd bet on Warrington - or someone else?

No not really, there is still alot of talent at the top end of RL but the days of marquee signings from the southern hemisphere are diminishing because of the sizeable NRL salary cap and the exchange rate of the Aussie dollar over recent years. This has also meant a few UK players going to the NRL, which is good for SL imo. Although any team in SL can win on any given day, the makeup of the top 8 teams is still fairly consistent, give or take a couple of teams.
Obviously we would like SL to have the intensity and competition of the Aussie NRL but it won't happen in the medium term. However I still enjoy watching games on TV and have renewed my season ticket as it is still my favourite sport to watch.

What I am really hoping for is a competitive world cup and England beating Aus/NZ. I think we have a good young talented team at the moment, as well as some depth.

Warrington are obviously favourites but I wouldn't rule out Leeds, Saints or Wigan. Alot will be down to injuries over the course of the season though.

Alot of the Leeds players earn less staying at Leeds than they could do elsewhere. I don't know if they have other incentives but it seems from the fans point of view and the things the players say is they want to play for Leeds, they supported Leeds growing up and many grew up around Leeds. Why should they go seek pastures new when its failed for so many?

RL is great to bet on, dunno who prices up games but a few times last season teams were 10/1+ vs Warrington which is just ridiculous.

As for betting on the league title, I am not sure what to think of the bet.. 11/4 seems OK but it only takes Tompkins to get long term injury and you turn into a beatable team. As the league aint that important anymore I would only bet on Grand Final winners. Leeds were as long as 33/1 in running for 2012 :)

Injuries are such a huge factor for all team in RL, it seems every week a key players gets a serious injury (the only time we didn't win the Grand final was when 3 of our team were recovering from ACL's) so for me betting anything beyond week to week fixtures is a no no.

do you think the reason RU introduced bonus points for losing and scoring tries was to reduce the gap? or just promote more attacking play?

Makes sense fella.  The weekly rounds betting, with a bit of inside knowledge now and again could be a good earner and a bit of fun.  There are enough on here with decent RL knowledge.

Could do something throughout the season.

The English ru premiership introduced a grand final type system and bonus points to keep more teams in the hunt for longer in the season.most fans would like a straight league, but money talks. More games etc. Ru laws and esp probs in the scrum actively mitigate against attacking play

It's a good job National RU team have all the Northern coaches now then :) more attacking RL type play.

Not really. Farrell and Shaun Edwards are defense coaches. As I have long argued ru becoming more like league in terms of phases, though rl is limited to six tackles, is the reason its more boring than a generation ago.

Boshi, or others.

I'm told by a good Judge that these should be snapped up (this was 3 days ago, couple of prices have dropped since.)

Sam Tomkins top try scorer 10/1
Tom Briscoe top try scorer 25/1
Warrington team to score the most tries 9/4
Sinfield man of steel 10/1

Any thoughts?

Tomkins wasn't top try scorer last season, Josh Charnley beat him to that accolade. Sam does score a lot of tries, but also gets shed-loads of assists. I'd usually back a winger for top try scorer, but if not then it would be Sam. 10/1 doesn't sound too far off to me. See what some of the others think.


Briscoe is a talent, and at 25/1 looks a decent price. Not playing for Warrington or Wigan might harm his chances though.

Warrington top of the try-scoring seems a good shout. They'd probably be my bet ahead of Wigan this season.

Many think Sinfield is overdue the MOS, especially Leeds fans. Guess it depends on the season Leeds have, as they don't usually shine until the play offs, when it's too late. Maybe someone like Manu at Saints would be a good call? Not sure what odds he's been given.


Very interested to hear other's thoughts on these. as I fancy a wee flutter myself.

I backed these blind on his advice, I have no real knowledge at all.

Was it unusual for someone to get 30+ tries last season with Charnely getting 31?  Its 9/4 anyone to get 30+ this year

Charnley would have scored more but he picked up an injury and missed a handful of games towards the end of the regular season.

It's only the third time someone has scored over thirty tries in the regular season, so it isn't a regular occurrence. What is interesting is that he scored 31tries for Wigan, and Sam got 28, showing how many tries Wigan were scoring last season. Pat Richards was out for a lot of last season, and he's usually the source of a lot of w Wigan tries. So if he's fit this season,I'd expect the other two to score fewer tries.

Dwayne,  moved your posts to the new Super League thread. Hopefully,get some other opinions.

Ryan Hall could be a bet for top try scorer this season, as I believe he'll have a centre alongside him instead of Ablett. Also, Ben Jones -Bishop is out for a good few months because of a blood clot, so Leeds might favour Hall's wing even more.

This could be interesting:

http://www.ruggerinthering.com/

WHO'S THE HARDEST IN RUGBY LEAGUE?
8 FIGHTERS - 1 PRIZE - WINNER TAKES ALL
27 FEBRUARY 2013 | THE REEBOK, BOLTON

Should be interesting! Wonder what the odds are?

(http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc43/kinboshi/8-1_zps4babfcf6.png)

Lee Radford is pretty handy, would be my favourite.
Tim street must be a bit old
Hope Sibbit can box better than he plays.

Keep hearing rumours about Wigan getting rid of Hock, any truth Kin?

Been hundreds of different rumours, based on him but travelling to the US, etc.

But, appears tree truth is he's been injured, and now he's having surgery.

Yeah, Radford can fight.  He was my initial pick as favourite. Some hard men amongst them.

Out of current players, I'd fancy McIllorum against almost anyone else. Proper hard-nut, and people who know him have said there's only one person they'd back in a fight against him - and that's his mum!

Chris Tuson looked handy in the scrap vs Saints.

I think Sculthorpe may be a decent pick as well

Betts has gone public about Widnes' interest in Hock. Maybe he will move on?

Rumours  everywhere:

http://m.rlfans.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=33&t=542665&start=30

Is Hock moving a 'big thing'?

http://www.wiganwarriors.com/WContent.aspx?id=7869&type=1

Out on loan to Widnes for the season.  Rumours that he failed a drug test for recreational drugs (internal club testing), and the owner is furious with him (after standing by him for 2 years during his ban).

Well, he's one of the best second-row forwards in the Super League and is an England international.  He has phenomenal strength and is very good at drawing tackles and still being able to off-load.  Definitely a miss for Wigan, especially with the other players who've moved on this winter.

He's a silly boy, as Wigan have stood by him during his ban and it looks as though he's thrown that back at them.  He never was the brightest though :D

Sounds like he has treated Wigan like shit

It does, and I think that's probably the case.  Of course, would be good to hear it from his point of view as well.

A big loss for Wigan, but bigger and better players have moved on in the past.  Could have done without it though this season with all the other changes to the squad.  Going to be a big season for Farrell.

says in his interview that "its between him and Wigan" and would not elaborate.

Plenty of people elaborating and rumour-mongering on a Wigan forum I'm on.  Not sure we'll ever know exactly what has been happening with this.

Sky advert for new Super League season, featuring Bradley Wiggins:

http://www.skysports.com/video/inline/0,26691,12602_8432381,00.html

Castle top 8 finish 11/2 Ive had a dabble at.

On advice from others i might add.

That's quite optimistic, who do you think will be the six to finish below them?

Willie Manu is 25/1 for the Man of Steel award. If Saints have a good season, it could well be down to him joining the side.

If you're interested Dwayne?

 Early handicaps for round 1

-10 Leeds vs +10 Hull10/11
+20 Salford vs -20 Wigan10/11
-12 St Helens vs +12 Huddersfield10/11
-6 Bradford vs +6 Wakefield10/11
Scr Hull KR Vs Scr Catalans10/11
-8 London Vs +8 Widnes10/11
-20 Warrington Vs Castleford +20 10/11

Round 1 is notoriously difficult but I like Wigan, saints, london, Warrington. Possibly Hull as well.

Salford look a good bet at +20 to me.

Saints, Hull KR, Warrington and Salford for me.

Not sure Salford have a team yet. Wigan should stuff them imo

Cas will do well not to finish bottom this season.

Going for long shots the first few rounds, without handicap betting.

Hull 13/5
Salford 9/1
Hudds 4/1
Wakey 2/1
Widness 11/5
Cas 9/1

Will repeat this for the first few weeks in small accumulators etc..

I like wakey at 2/1 most.

Not sure about Wakey, you just never know with us. But 2/1 does seem generous. However Tim Smith is our playmaker and a huge doubt for the game.

Possibly, but not sure the 1st team have actually played together yet!  All the pre-season matches have been the youngsters or the youngsters with a splattering of the old guard.

Also got Hansen out with his wrist injury (for a few months), as are Tuson and Lauki. 

Great news for Salford today with the takeover complete and 6 new signings announced

This is good news for the RFL:

http://www.therfl.co.uk/news/article/26919/rfl-appoint-brian-barwick-as

Friday night:

(http://e0.365dm.com/11/09/660x350/Ryan-Bailey-Leeds-Rhinos_2654839.jpg)

Will do what he wants.

and Sir "Golden Boot" Sinfield

(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRTBdRPN91_QU0Y39xfPPzyHRN7-xhL8WsDJdBrxnCud3uvG_hJ)

will be marshalling the troops. Let the games begin..

Fancy Saints for the regular season

A few good signings, and should be more competitive than last year.

Looking at the clubs and the squads, can't really bet against Warrington.

Yep me too

Great youngsters one year older, together with a couple of good signings and a hungry coach. Worth a bet imo

Hull FC/Leeds Rhinos HF/FT 7/1 on Laddys thats my £2 tonight.

enjoy the games.

Dwayne's top try scorer bet gets off to a decent start.

well that was close, new it would be tight early on. Later on in games Rhinos tend to come good, Ellis injured in warm up meant Hull could never win, easy really in end.

St Helens    4 - 40 (0 - 22)    Huddersfield Giants    R

Boom 4/1 upset freerolling now for the rest.

Nice bet. Huddersfield are a decent side, but didn't see that score line coming.

Saints have got a LOT of improvement to do if they are going to challenge this season.

Aye cant really tell much from first few weeks, Hudds last season started really well and dropped like a fly, saying that you dont wanna lose too many 40+ at home...:)

Widness doing the business at London no suprise, or the frenchies doing Hull away. Not bad for outsiders 4 won this week small profit. roll on next week

told you to leave Wakey alone, we were fucking abysmal

Round two fixtures with odds.

Hull    v    Bradford Bulls    20:00    4/9 vs  2/1
Wigan Warriors    v    Warrington Wolves    10/10 vs 10/11
Catalan Dragons    v    Salford Reds    1/41 vs 12/1    
Wakefield Wildcats    v    Hull KR    1/1 vs 10/11
Huddersfield Giants    v    London Broncos    1/11 vs 15/2    
Widnes Vikings    v    St Helens    7/2 vs 1/4   
Castleford Tigers    v    Leeds Rhinos 6/1 vs 1/7

Some nice outsiders this week, will back them all. Salford 12/1! lol. I like Cas who for them this is the biggest game of the season.

Catalan and Huddersfield slight favourites then? :D

Tell you who I'd fancy a few pound on at those odds - and that would be Widnes to beat St Helens, as the saints pack was in disarray last weekend and if Widnes can get at them there then it could be very close.  Hock might be fit for that game as well.  People are expecting a Saints backlash from last-weekend, but the players will be feeling the pressure as well.  I know Widnes aren't Huddersfield, but Widnes will be up for this one as well.

Also, Widnes are 5/1 to win by 1-10 points, which seems a better bet than the 7/2 for the win.

Yeah it will be interesting to see if the Saints can improve from the shambles last week. If Hock plays then Widnes have a sporting chance for sure.

The handicaps are:
Hull -6 v Bradford
Wigan v wire scratch
Catalan -28 v Salford
Wakefield v hull kr scratch
Huddersfield -20 v London
Widnes v St. Helens -14
Cas v Leeds -16

Not sure about the other two matches. Heart says Wigan, but really it could go either way and it wouldn't be a surprise to see either win it by a margin.  Wakefield v Hull KR, think I'm leaning towards KR on that one...

Lets hope the Wig/Warr is a ding dong battle. Cant wait to watch it!

I actually think Wakefield will win, not just because I support them. Hope tonight's game is a belter

Should be a cracking match.  I've already cast-aside my dislike for the way the league is run (with the focus on the play-offs and Grand Final over the most consistent team throughout the whole season), and am well up for it!

Really looking forward to seeing the Smith/Green partnership develop in the halves.

Yeah league formats a joke and Wigan peaked too early last season, which was great for us :) helped to have your best player out injured too.

I'd be more confident about Wigan's chances if Hansen was fit. Glad he's missing now though, and not at the 'business-end' of the season.

Close first half, but think that the side that makes the fewest errors and gives away the fewest penalties will win.

Come on wazza! Dtd have not got it on they have this game with a round ball on!

Good game. Mistakes by both sides, and a draw probably the right result. Thought Warrington got the rub of the green from the officials, but these things are meant to even themselves out. At least Bentham didn't break his leg this time.

Thought the Ginger Pearl was excellent, as was O'Loughlin. Thoughtthe yyoungWWigan pack did well to stand up and out-muscle their pack at times.

Interesting my Facebook feed is Warrington bias and said different about the ref but I have not seen the game so I cannot comment! Will be watching the highlights later sounds like a good game!!

As a neutral, I thought the ref made one crucial bad decision in favour of each team. The rest were pretty even, some good calls real time and in my opinion Bentham had no bearing on the overall result. Fair result, Wigan pups played above expectations and played well, Wire look good for the league shield but will no doubt be beat by a rejuvenated Saints team in the grand final.

Wigan played according to expectations. Don't believe everything you read in the media.

With Hansen back, and when the halves start to click, Wigan could well be a force this season.

As for the ref's decisions, the one he made in their favour resulted in a try. I don't remember that being levelled out during the game. Did I miss something?

I think Goulding got a penalty late on for being put into touch by a number of tacklers that was harsh on wire, then Matty smith kicked the DG.

Also think SO'L got away with a couple late on in the game where a penalty may have swung the momentum.

Good game though. Think Farrell and Goulding may be bolters for the England team.

Bentham called held, the tacklers are meant to stop pushing the player, but they continued to try and move him into touch. That's a penalty, and once Goulding put his foot into touch then the ref had to give the penalty.

Agree with some of Lockers stuff late on, but that was hardly in a try-scoring position.

good game, the bookmakers got it right Scratch handicap!

Not a bad week 6/1 on Cas beating Leeds, their game of the season. Sounded like Rangi chase should have been sent off twice and the ref kept giving Cas pens until they converted them and won :)

3 wins this round for outsiders

Interesting  today. Sounds like saints got fortunate  when  Widnes were down to 11 men.

Acid, you called the Leeds result as well!

Yep I just New classy Cas would up their game and Rangi chase was (apart from when he took out a leeds player) was the best player by a street. Not many Leeds players really wanted a scrap yesterday maybe one eye on the world club championship.

Bousquet - 4 matches

Chase - 2 matches

Cross - 1 match (early guilty plea)


Not sure what  Bousquet would have needed to have done to get the full 5 match ban.  Also think Chase should have got more, as it's not like his first offence for this kind of thing.

Its ok to Cas fans, they won their cup final. Chase can rest for a few weeks. Yep he has lots of history, watch out for the return fixture, he might be 'rested'.

Chase was cited for a level of offence that meant he could only get up to 2 matches. But that means his previous couldn't be taken into account.  There was also the other offence in that game that he wasn't cited for as well (because he missed).  Dirty player, and glad that Wigan didn't sign him last season.

You should have Ablett or Bailey get him next time...

Interesting match-ups this weekend:

Leeds v Salford (+36)
St Helens v Hull (+8)
Warrington v Catalans (+12)
Huddersfield v Wigan (-4)
Hull KR v Widnes (+8)
London v Wakefield (+4)

Leeds (1/41) Draw (66) Salford (18)
St Helens (7/19) Draw (22) Hull (12/5)
Warrington (1/4) Draw (25) Catalans Dragons (46/13)
Bradford (3/8) Draw (22) Castleford (23/10)
Huddsfield (7/4) Draw (20) Wigan (4/7)
Hull K R (5/11) Draw (20) Widnes (2)
London Broncos (8/11) Draw (20) Wakefield (11/8)

Not too happy with the outsiders this week. No idea why London are odds on though, would not surprise me if Hudds won. Most probs no big bets this week maybe tiny bet on Salford HT Leeds FT at 15/1

Wakey v London is never close in recent history. Recently we get thrashed at London and return the favour at our place. Would avoid backing Wakey but getting start is tempting.

London surely can't be worse than how they have played lately

Lots of pundits backing Saints to be the side to watch this season. Not really delivering at the moment are they?

However, we all know that the performances and results now really don't matter, and they could improve throughout the season.

The Warrington v Catalan sounded like a dirty affair. Webb sin-binned twice during the game as well. Looks like Catalan aren't aiming for any fair-play awards this year.

Perversely I rather enjoyed the wire v cats game, especially when Webb got decked.

Webb and Pryce, talented as they are, are still the crafty shithouses they have always been. Although Webb isn't quite as good at getting away with it as he used to be.

Talking to a friend who was at Huddersfield for the Wigan match. He said Wigan starred well, even without Tomkins, but faded towards the end and Green had been playing with tonsillitis and was dead on his feet so had to be withdrawn. He said he wasn't overly concerned with the result, with the absentees, and the scoreline didn't reflect how close the game was, with Huddersfieldsscoring at the end when Wigan were pressing for a try.

He said the Huddersfield defence was particularly impressive and if they can maintain their form without their usual crash at the end of the season, they could be right up there in the mix.

Not a bad weekend, both Wakey and Hudds won for small profit overall.

Is Tompkins injured for a while?

Heard he had a dead-leg before the game, but then they said it was his shoulder.  But apparently not out for long, and should be back for the next match.

http://www.superleaguefans.com/rugby-league/2013/02/20/rfl-confirms-shoulder-charge-ban.html

I think they're trying to remove the badly done shoulder-charges (where the elbow or arm strikes the head), but it's interesting that a lot of players and coaches voted for it to stay at the start of the year.  It's similar to the 'two-footed' tackle in football I think.

Part of the culture of the game. Worst part of League players coming into Union sides was seeing these tackles happen (usually badly/illegal in union). I don't really watch enough RL to have a real qualified opinion but from a rugby sense anything that contributes to injury somewhat unnecessarily should be outlawed right? I can't see shoulder charges being a particularly exciting/important part of the game, but maybe im wrong.

I can't think of (m)any injuries from shoulder-charges that weren't high.  High-tackles aren't legal anyway, and so why ban something else?

Some hits in rugby league are very exciting/important:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25Qw_5gd6gc

(That's not actually a shoulder-charge imo, as Leuluai was attempting to put his arms round the other player as he made the tackle).

Yeah of course but I'd agree that wasn't a shoulder charge. I think the general nature of the shoulder charge leads to it being somewhat high though. Meh, I can definitely see myself being against it if I was a league fan in a lot of circumstances. Lets hope it doesn't affect the sport too much.

It won't affect it that much.  But there are definitely other things that are more dangerous in the game that are already illegal, but players are getting away with these and not getting bans that are proper punishment for their crimes - so there's no real deterrent.

I did tell you Rangi was a naughty boy and got away with one, hence they won the game and took out a player. As a result of that numb nut thinking it was ok to shoulder charge someones head this happened.

But he hit Hardaker in the head.  Chase has smashed a player across the jaw previously with his elbow.  That's also illegal and stopping shoulder-charges won't stop him doing something illegal that hurts another player in the future.

yeah i dunno if its a good decison or not but if players do silly things to peoples heads nothing suprises me.

They still will though.  Morley will continue to throw high shots, and Chase will do what he does.  Outlawing shoulder-charges seems to be solving a problem that doesn't really exist (imo). But not going to lose any sleep over it.

Yet another crap rule for the refs to misinterpret. Just keep contact with the head outlawed and give out long bans to those that get it wrong and take someone out dangerously.

I blame the Aussies

That's exactly what I was trying to say!

Think the bookies really fancy Melbourne tomorrow. Leeds are 15/8 ish.

Maybe a small wager on Mel HT Leeds FT 8/1 to keep me entertained.

Wigan Warriors do the Harlem Shake:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIHiN6PKMP4

:D

That's what they were doing v the Giants last week ;)

lol King sinfield makes it 8-8 Half time...on the buzzer...

Leeds paying for their missed chances now

Thats why we are champiooooons thats why were champions.

Good game, enjoyed it, Mel. Strorm just too good.

Sculthorpe beat Radford in the final apparently, after Radford was winning Sculthorpe knocked him down.

dont fancy saints, leeds 7/4 pls.

Good odds for Leeds, getting 6 points start as well, which has to be value.

collect the wonga chaps..

Easy.

Sintellens aren't a good side, and Leeds are.

Yep, about right. A few injuries and they are vunerable.

Warrington and Huddersfield both losing - who'd have funk it!?

Wigan trying their best to throw away a 4-22 lead. With just under 10 minutes to go it's now 20-22, with the kick to come.

:(

Make that 22-22. 

Chase hits the post with a drop-goal attempt with two minutes to go, the ball falls to a Cas player, but they're offside.

Wigan have got the ball for the first time in ages.  A drop-goal could win this... it's with Smith and his attempt is charged down and Wigan get the ball back!

A few minutes to go... O'Loughlin manages to offload and Tuson's takes the pass and scores the try that must win it for Wigan!!  Saying that, there's still time left...

Exciting stuff!

back all the outsiders this week again as per plan, not seen any of the days stuff yet been busy, but had leeds and London up from Fri and Widness from Sat, this could be a nice payday..

off to wash up, kids to bed then will look at my betting slip.

Ahh yes Hudds losing to Bradford :) and Hull doing Warr added to the other days meant 5/7 win..+£48.43 lol i should stick to RL betting.

Really baffles me the odds on RL these days, anyone can beat anyone without Handicap some nice long odds to be had.

I didn't see today's results coming.  Have Huddersfield already started their slump, they usually wait till at least June :D

It's very difficult to predict the results this early in the season.  Warrington were beaten by a side that were hammered by a team whose coach was sacked today! Makes it good to watch though!

Hull (4/11)    Draw (25) Castleford (13/5)
Leeds (1/3)   Draw (25)Huddersfield (41/13)
Warrington (1/3)  Draw (25)St Helens (11/4)
Widnes (15/8)     Draw (20)Bradford (6/11)
Wigan (3/10)      Draw (25)Catalans Dragons (13/4)
London Broncos (6/4)  Draw (20)Hull K R (11/17)
Wakefield (1/5)   Draw (33) Salford (9/2)

I like the outsiders this week, Hudds are a decent price to bounce back against Leeds and so are Saints.

Catalan must be a decent price against Wigan.  O'Loughlin and Tuson are doubts for the match (not sure on their current status, but they both got knocks in the game against Cas - I think Lockers will be having a last-minute test before the game, but Tuson is expected to be OK), and Mossop is now alongside Hansen, Lauaki and Goulding as those out for a while.

Spencer has been recalled from Leigh to be ready as cover if Crosby is ruled out after his concussion.

So, with such decimation in the forward line, and the size and strength of Catalan's pack, it's going to be a big ask for Wigan even though they're at home.

Ahh interesting, I like the French but was kinda put off with the narrow win last week at home vs Wakey. I will still be backing them vs Wigan tho.

i've cancelled my sky sports and gone for watching the NRL on Premier Sports.
Watched Souths yesterday, jesus you wouldn't mess with the Burgess family, they are all huge.
They could be the cornerstone of an England pack for the future.

Goulding and Prescott still out as well - missed them off the list!

In other news:
http://www1.skysports.com/rugby-league/news/12196/8546958

saints 14-0 up hudds 4-0 up..

Told you. 18-0 to Wigan at half time.

couple more 3/1s for the bank, easy game this league. Bookies cluless on these.

Good job i had it in nice double..

Super Paddy Richards. 200th game for Wigan, and he scored his 150th and 151st tries. WWhen he joined the club a lot of the fans thought he was rubbish. But after a season and a bit he started to fit in and became a fantastic player for the club.

A brilliant player, and one of my all-time favourites. Huge shoes to fill when he decides to retire.

Cat I just seen a few times now and they seem to have gone backwards from last season. Wigan did very well though!

Two draws! least we picked the two outsider wins. Salford will be gutted with Wakey drop goal so late. How on earth did Cas beat leads all those weeks ago? seen the highlights and they looked so bad against Hull FC.

Quiet weekend next for SL, Leeds vs Wigan.

How many draws have their been this season, and surely it's far more than usual. I can't remember a season with as many as we've had so far.

Leeds v Wigan next week will depend a lot on who is available for each side, and who's out injured.  Could be a draw :D

No idea about tonight, normally get a feel for the big games but this one could literally be a big win for either team or a draw/tight game.

Most probs go for Drop goal being scored...3/1 Leeds vs Wigan.

No strong opinions either.  You want me to back Wigan though after my tip last week :D

Goulding is back for Wigan after his long illness - a big positive for Wigan.

fuk me how many chances..

Well i guess it was the tight game in the end, due to leeds not taking their chances...but Wigan imo looked a few short, tompkins not playing obv the diff.

Thought Leeds were the better team, but both made a lot of mistakes.

Wigan's absentees affected them more than Leeds'.  Really missed Richards on the left wing.  Still, some promising displays from some of the players and Farrell was excellent once again.  Funny to think that when Hock was in the side, Farrell was only a bit-part player and hardly started.  Looking forward to Hansen getting back into the side as he adds another dimension in attack at the fringes of the pack.

Ryan Hall is easily the best winger in Super League, ainec.

Ryan Hall should have had 5 tries, Joel Monaghan is better IMO!

LOL - not even close.

I have never understood the hype about Ryan Hall, yeah he's a good finisher from about 5 yards but there are many areas of his game that are not world class. Maybe acidhouse, could provide a more accurate assessment.

He has Strength, speed and the knack of getting over the line. Priceless commodity. It's good if others think he's no great shakes :)

Defensively he's solid too. Last night he missed a handful of chances but was still involved in all of Leeds tries.

Defensively is one of the areas that  I see room for improvement, he's much like Mr Charnley. Only my opinion it just shows how we all rate/ slate different players.

Leeds match moved to Sunday because of the snow, and no match on telly tonight :(

At least there's a match on tomorrow and Sunday to compensate.

Aye bummer.

~Easy win again, no suprise given  "Warrington have now won their last six matches against Huddersfield and have not lost to the Giants since April 2011 "

Suprised Saints only just beat salford though.

I guess that's why Wigan were 33/1 on before the game!

:D

Heard rumours (pretty strong ones) that Wigan will be signing Andy Powell from RU for three years.  Other than knowing he's a big unit with decent hands, don't know too much about him.  Not sure if I'd rather see young players come through (such as Tom Spencer and Dom Crosby) instead of signing someone from union, especially someone that age.  We do need some size in the forwards, and he certainly brings that.

Any union fans got thoughts on him?

When he first made the Wales team, he was a very impressive player, a real force to be reckoned with. His star is definitely declining though and he's now something of a journeyman. Not sure if his fall from grace was coincident with the infamous golf buggy incident :)

He is a waste of time. Not a tenth as good as he thinks he is, and he is very dumb.

Sounds perfect as a front rower then :D

or straight swap for Hock

Yeah, if he does sign for Wigan it'll certainly liven things up around the place :D

Hock on his day is one of the best in the game. His problem is that he does stupid things as well which means he's not at the top of his game enough.

Terrible signing

Complete party animal, terrible attitude

Union well rid of him

Looking forward to Leeds vs Bradford tonight, we aint played for two weeks and I feel will have too much for Bradford.

1/4 on for Leeds I dont think so, most probs small nibble on Bradford 4/1 and Bradford HT Leeds FT 7/1.

Bradford started off well against Catalan last week, but then died away and Catalan overran them fairly comfortably.  I think Leeds will be too much for them, at home especially.  The bookies have it to Leeds by 12 points. 

I like the Bradford HT / Leeds FT bet @ 7/1.

Leeds will be a stronger side when Hardaker and Jones-Bishop are back that's for sure.

As for the Wigan v Sintellens game, can't really see beyond a Wigan win.  Lomax, Hohaia, Puletua and Roby will be missing - which leaves them far weaker than Wigan, even with Mossop, Hansen, Lauaki and Flower missing.  Just think Wigan have more strength in depth.

O'Loughlin and McIllorum were both doubts, but are expected to play and both are big players who make a big difference for Wigan.  Sam Tomkins also was a slight worry, but I'm sure he'd want to play this one even if he's on crutches.

I think Sintellens will try to go big and win it down the middle.  But I expect Wigan to stand up to them and look to spread the play wide as often as possible and have too much for them in terms of speed.

So I have Leeds and Wigan to win their derbies, but not sure about the Hull one - could be close and should be a fair few points.  The draw might be on again!

Great game draw about right. Least we snagged a 10/1 and 8/1 upsets today;) Salford and widness winning lol

Great results for Wigan this weekend so far. The league is the most unpredictable it's been for a while imo.

Glad we beat Sintellens, but made a meal of it, when it should have been a lot easier. O'Loughlin and Tomkins aren't fit, and as soon as possible they need a chance to recover as they are obviously key for Wigan and will be needed at the business end of the season.

Liam Farrell has been Wigan's outstanding player this season.  Really stepped up to the plate.

However, maybe he's on the decline.  He only made 40 tackles and 143 metres against Sintellens, and he has now missed a tackle this season!

http://www.superleague.co.uk/match_report/8822

84 at hull kr?! rofl...wp Wigan.

I'd backed Wigan to win giving away 16 points. Think I should have gone for a bigger margin!

Hull KR were missing a lot of players, but so were Wigan.  No O'Loughlin and Charnley went off after the first try of the game with a cut to his ankle that required 15 stitches. I can imagine there'd have been more points if Charnley had stayed on for the full 80 minutes!

Ryan Bailey is an idiot.

Although Leeds have improved and are playing better since he was sent off :D

Yeah we win away at top of the table and all u go on about it a sending off that was extremly harsh, joke of a sending off and ref. Catalans try how it stood just after that I never know.

Nice to see such a solid game from leeds at statistically the hardest place to go a d get a result in the past few years. ;)

Joke of a sending off?  A shoulder-charge that was into the head of the other player!  Also, I wasn't 'going on' about it, I mentioned it when it happened during the game, and then mentioned how well Leeds were playing after he was sent off.


Yes, was a good result and the Leeds players stood up to the bully-boys of Catalan. 

watched it a few times and its around his chest, but tbh karma for his first offence that went unpunished :) lol

world class again :) warrington downed.

I never watch rugby but watched this as was bored.

Saw post match interview of both managers. Warrington manager clearly didn't realise sky cameras were on him when he didnt have to speak lol. Took sky a while to realise and move just to the Leeds coach!

2's each between Hall and Monaghan. I thought your full back was robbed not to take man of the match!

I had a bet on unders, so watched for the sweat and think that it might have been nice if Warrington turned up in the 1st half...

Hall and Monaghan world class finishers. I'd put Richards up there with them, and think Charnley will be that standard in a few years.

Good results this weekend (for me), and think it's going to prove to be a wide open battle amongst the top sides as to who will be on top when the play offs come round.

In other news, cracking punch from Poore to get a red card:
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4c8o5J9Q_cQ

Call that a punch? This is a punch son - BANG!

sigh we had no chance winning away at Wigan with 12 men for most of the game.
Obv no action taken against Farrell though for his powder puff effort first up.

Lucky not to have been down to 11 men for a large chunk of the game as well!

how many game ban for that? i hope its more than baileys 5? lol.


On a serious note, I am liking the way Leeds going along now. Beat all the top teams (I don't class hudds yet as one) and going along steady. They pretty much destroyed warrington in everything bar the score. A jaded 2nd half due to a trip to France and the bulls in town meant we were never going to run away with it in the end.

We can beat any team on our day. Wigan however unlike last season are also going along very good without being in the top form they lost at the back end of last season. Fully expect a Leeds vs Wigan grandfinal based on how the season is going.

Bailey, Delany to come back too :) Hardacker back after several weeks..roll on Friday.

Leeds are playing well, and it's looking like a three-horse race (with maybe Huddersfield in the mix as well as long as they don't do their normal implosion thing) for the league-leaders shield.

It's a bit of a 'phoney war' at the moment, with all the sides struggling with absentees through injury.  It's going to be a case of who can cope the best without their missing players, and who will be strongest come the end of the season.

Wigan didn't play well on Sunday, but for the match against Bradford, there could be Charnley, Richards, Lockers, Hansen, Mossop and Flower all back in contention. Not a bad group of players to have coming back into the side.

In other news, Thatcher has managed to disrupt the Challenge Cup draw which now won't be taking place on 5Live :(

Her final 'fuck you' to the North.

Exactly! 

Yeah I think ~Wigan have more depth this year. Not worried about Hudds tbh, think come the end of the season they will be 4-5th and lose out to the bigger team come crunch time.

Maybe Bradford up there as well?  Or again, not enough strength in depth?

I liked Bradford against Leeds, they seemed to have a great team spirit and some good players. Would not want to meet them in playoffs :(

Ties to be played April 20-21
 

Hull KR v St Helens
Whitehaven v Workington
York v Toulouse
Gloucestershire v Salford
Leeds v Castleford
Keighley v Warrington
Widnes v Doncaster
Halifax v Barrow
London v Featherstone
Sheffield v Dewsbury
Hull v North Wales
Batley v Huddersfield
Rochdale v Bradford
Hunslet v Catalan
Hemel v Wakefield
Wigan v Leigh

grr, Cas! There ONLY win has been against us. Doomed.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/22066635

;carlocitrone;

Poore got a one match ban for his send off

!

Sale are saying a 3.5 year deal has been done for Wigan to sign Andy Powell.  Wigan so far have said "no comment".  It's all a bit strange.

In other news:

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/rugby-star-suffers-ruptured-testicle-1821208

Ouch.

yep read that, sounded painful. I guess no golf for him for a while :) hes pretty much at the Leeds golf center wike daily! with loads of the Rhinos.

Pretty much the expected results in the Challenge Cup with the Super League sides, with the possible exception of Hull KR's win against Saints.

A definite red card for Meli for his ridiculous head-shot:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7IURFWJWVg

and he's going to be out for 6-8 weeks with a dislocated elbow that he sustained in doing it!

Although Batley 4 Huddersfield 13 is  lot closer than it should have been.

Just catching up on all the games, wowzers that it a horrible headshot! karma on him there.

Wish Wigan were playing St Helens this weekend :D

You would beat them any time this season, Wigan are a level above the Saints defo.

Interesting draw for us, Hudds away !!!

Yeah, I think Wigan would - but I wanted to see Wigan put 80 past them :D

Did you hear the draw on 5Live?  Apparently, it was a farce with them announcing the wrong teams, Richard Bacon making jokes and being disinterested throughout, and things like that.  Should move all the coverage to Sky if the BBC can't be arsed with it.

Huddersfield v Leeds has to be the stand-out tie, and the one that'll be on telly.  Wigan at Hull KR will be a good one as well.

Nah was busy but seen a few tweets by sports journalists questioning the reason Bacon was there? seems bizarre.

trying to find link to video or audio of it? bacon twitter feed looks like he got some stick for it lol

also seems bizarre that only one match will be shown on TV when there are a handful of ties to pick from and they have the rights to show 2.
After Hudds v Leeds, i expect Hull v Wakey to be a decent game to watch, Maybe KR v Wigan - Kr will have something to prove after getting stuffed by Wigan a few weeks ago.

Also heard the draw was a farce but didnt actually listen to it. Putting it on the radio at 3.30 on a Monday just shows how highly the whole thing is rated anyway. Might as well put it on radio leeds at 5.30am or put it after the shipping forecast. Why they dont show a Sunday game and then have the draw on TV after i will never know.

CC Draw on Five Live:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01s1d7h

Skip to 1hr 35mins 40s.

Andy Powell to Wigan confirmed yesterday, Hock and Mossop joining NRL side Parramatta for next year for significant (in RL terms) 6 figure transfer fees.

i think there will be further movement towards the NRL to come as their salary cap is much higher and the Aussie Dollar is pretty strong against the £, plus their game is much higher profile/quality.

Hock and Mossop to Parramatta at the end of the season, Powell signed from Sale.

Sorry to see Mossop go, was developing into a top-class front rower.

Farrell has signed a 5-year extension to his contract. That's definitely good news.

Long to Wigan to coach the U19s (I think). Hopefully he's better behaved than he was as a player!


Just reading more details from today's press conference, and it appears that the Mossop deal means he'll be returning to Wigan in 2016, which is excellent news. Bad news for Wigan is that Sam Tomkins will be off to the NRL in "a year or two". Better than him going to union though.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/nrl/wests-tigers-sign-2005-nrl-premiership-hero-pat-richards-from-wigan/story-e6frfgg6-1226630209144

Arguably Wigan's best overseas signing of all time. Has contributed so much to Wigan, and those will be massive shoes to fill.  Glad we had him at his best, and we're selling him to the NRL now rather than the other way round.

yeah good player, lost a bit of speed due to injuries etc but turned into a fantastic goalkicker and very reliable finisher. Pretty surprised he hasn't seen out his career over here though.
I remember watching that NRL Grand Final in 2005 on the box, was a great game capped by an awesome try.

Doesn't strike me as Wigan's best overseas player but then again i struggle to name many i would put above him (not that i am a great Wigan historian). I suppose he is comparable to Botica in recent memory?

In terms of his contribution, I think he's the best.  A consummate professional, who arrived at Wigan and didn't shine to start with.  Worked on his game, especially his kicking, and has been indispensable for the best part of 8 years now.

He's not known for his pace, but he's no slouch when he gets into top gear.  Slowing up a bit now maybe, but like you say, still a great finisher and don't think there's anyone better in the SL under the high kick?

Compared to Botica, he's a far better player.  Botica would shade it for me in regards to the kicking, but there's so much more to Pat's game.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVsZPqiwj9A

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riPTYsBwMhE

Phenomenal finisher.

@RFLReferees - the new twitter account for rugby league referees.

Sounds like a good idea to me, and provides a means of dialogue between the fans and the refs. Not for abuse, apparently :D

https://twitter.com/RFLReferees

Good win for Wakey against Widnes at their place.  Could have gone either way, but a good game to watch.

Wigan didn't play too well against Hull, but did enough to win by 8 points, thanks to Super Paddy Richards who scored 6/6 from the boot.

London 6 St Helens 10 at half-time.

I've got London, and London +6.5pts, and it's been a close one so far.

Boooooom!

21-14 to London.  Lots of mistakes from sintellins, and London defended pretty well. 

Salford v Cas is a cracking game - both sides making all sorts of errors and they're taking it in turns to score tries.

5 minutes to go, no idea who's going to win it!

wow some good games, need to watch the highlights show!

Leeds v KR should be a good game as well. Would expect a fair few points and Leeds to come out on top.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/rugby-league-general/other-rugby-league/2013/05/02/salford-charged-by-rugby-football-league-over-player-error-100252-33272416

Noble's tactics at Salford are called into question...

At half-time it's been a pretty easy first 40 minutes for Leeds v Bradford and Wigan v Salford, as expected.

The interesting score is Saints 12 Widnes 22 at half-time.  More woe at Langtree Park :D

Make that half time score 12-28, I do believe.

Yes, must have kicked-off a bit later - so even better :D

The start was delayed by at least 15 minutes, but I cannot ascertain the reason.

The next four games for Sintellens are: Leeds (A), Wire (Magic), Huddersfield (A), Bradford (H).

On current form I can't see them getting a point out of those four games. 9 defeats in a row? One thing is for sure, the bookies won't have them favourites for those games!

Update on these bets:

Tomkins is on 18 tries now, after 14 rounds.  He's four ahead of Dixon, Sammut, Charnley and J Monaghan.
Briscoe is down on 6 tries, so unless he and Hull have a dramatic change in form then that one looks lost.
Wigan have scored 95 tries, compared to Warrington's 73 - so going to need quite a shift for that bet to come in
Sinfield to get MOS - probably amongst the runners, and seen as the best player never to have won it might go in his favour.  There are a few stand-out players so far this season, and I'd have Wigan's Liam Farrell at the top of my list (as I'm biased).

Wigan scoring so many points! hope we can do the saints this week and continue rhinos good run.

You'll score 50+ against Saints, they're truly woeful and really suffering at the moment.  I really can't see them getting a sniff in the next three games (Leeds, Warrington and Huddersfield), and if Bradford play to their capability they will also beat sintellins comfortably.

The race for the league leader's spot looks like it's a three-horse race, with Huddersfield a possible (but unlikely) fourth.

Catalan
Wigan
Warrington
Widnes
Huddersfield
Hull
London
Sheffield

That's the eight left in the Challenge Cup.  Not sure when the draw for the quarter finals is, but think that Wigan, Warrington and Huddersfield will be the sides that everyone wants to avoid. Sheffield are the only non-SL side still in the competition, but hopefully there'll be no repeat of 1998 :D

Watched Leeds lose outside the final for 4 years yesterday, dam first time in years we got outplayed in the cup like that!

Leeds weren't good yesterday.  Too many of the big players who make a difference for Leeds had an off day (Sinfield, Burrow, McGuire in particular).  Huddersfield just did the basics well and were efficient.  Crabtree had a cracking game as well, and think he might be in with a shout for England in the World Cup.

Still think Leeds will improve and come into form towards the end of the season.  Obviously too late for the Cup, but they'll still be in contention for the play-offs and Grand Final.

With both half-backs out for Wigan through injury it was Powell and Williams turn to step up to the plate. Powell was good, and Williams was exceptional on his SL debut. Of course the opposition weren't top notch, but you can only play what's in front of you.

 Great Challenge Cup draw too :)

Can't see anything other than a convincing win for Leeds against Saints.  Sky trying to sell it as a close one to call, but can't see it myself.

Help I can't get it up! Hehe, am trying to bring the game up on sky go and it is listing the froch tatics program and no super league to watch. Is it on now? Boo.

It's on SS1, programme started at 7:30, it's now half-time.

It was a half of two halves, and somehow it's only 16-12 to Leeds when they should be 20+ points up.  Also, Soliola lucky not to have been sent-off for his late shoulder-charge.  Instead the ref put it on report.  Not quite sure what that achieves, and it certainly doesn't help Leeds in this match does it?  Same as when Green was hit late by Patterson of Hull KR - nothing done at the time, but he gets a 4-match ban.  That doesn't help Green or Wigan at all.

I managed to get it on in the 2nd minute. Blimey, I could have saved myself 40 minutes and just read your write up.

I sent a Saints matey a text pre match saying you have two hopes! Just seen LMS go into level the scores, re-evaluate to they either win or they don't.. so two options again!

It's all sintellins at the moment, as Leeds have hit the self-destruct button.  Hardaker with two huge errors, but the whole team seem to have switched off. 

From 16-0 to 16-26.  I still think Leeds 'should' win it. 

Leeds weren't good at all tonight.  Obviously the missing players a big factor, but should have won that game comfortably.

happy with backing saints, didn't watch game but my Dad told me all our forwards out injured...due a bad game in the league.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugby-league/live/match-reaction/37169/ganson-apologises-for-hull-decision

Shocking decision that pretty much decided the result of the match.

Ganson dropped as video-ref for the Wigan v Leeds match this evening :D

Didn't see the Leeds game but read the Sun report that said a few horrid decisions, not too fussed close game means with fit forwards I fancy it to be close again.

Not sure what horrid decisions they were on about, except maybe McIlorum getting blown up for a shoulder charge when the first thing to hit Sinfield was McIllorum's hand on his back.

You missed a brilliant try by Watkins though. Try to watch a video of that if you can.

yeah i was on holiday with no internet or TV lol...killer. Sun report was pants so took it with pinch of salt. Happy it was close will youtube the try now :)

I love to troll Boshi on this thread... No doubt the obstruction given in the lead up to Danny McGuire's (no) try would be deemed as controversial. Both parties agreed on another day the decision could have been reversed and even with the benefit of the video ref its a feel situation. Stevo was raging on the shoulder charge against Sinfield, MM lucky there but no others of note!

McDermott said it was the right decision, so hardly controversial. If it had been earlier in the game then we wouldn't even be talking about it.

yeah my Dad had a slightly different view of the game to you kin lol..

but we had 5 first teamers out and the leauge structure means nothing lost really

http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/castleford-tigers/inside-rl-technology-highlights-cast-iron-cases-for-review-of-video-referees-1-5721623

Just how good is Sam?

so so many out injured for leeds, literally half the team long term..cas 4/1

Not really been watching superleague much since i got NRL coverage but encouraging for England is the form of Sam and George Burgess for Souths, plus James Graham has been excellent since his return from his biting ban.

Hopefully George's twin brother Tom can also break into the Souths first team as they are both 6'5" and 120kg. Last week Sam was suspended but George scored an absolute belter of a try against Newcastle (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eHpgLeiZ-U) and is probably the hottest forward in the NRL right now.

Also watched State of Origin 1 this week. Was a lower standard than in recent years i think but still pretty intense. A bit of biff just before half time with no cards shown just shows how the refs change their policy for the Origin games over regular season games. Any other game and Gallen would have got a yellow card minimum for punching Nate Miles twice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGv61fayADA

channel is NRL on?

I've backed Widnes tonight for the same reason.  10/11 +8 points, and Wigan have 9 players out including Sam Tomkins, Richards, Farrell, McIllorum, O'Loughlin, Green, and Smith.  So some pretty important players missing.

Hampshire and Tierney (Jason Robinson's son) getting their SL debuts, and big things are expected from Hampshire - but it's going to be tough to be thrown in with a very young and inexperienced side. I always think it's better to play the young players in a largely established side, rather than making wholesale changes.  I don't believe that all 9 players are injured.  I'm hoping that all nine who are missing tonight's game are also unavailable for the stupid Exiles game next weekend.

Premier Sports.   There are streams online as well.

Premier sports have NRL exclusive rights and show every game. Also exclusive rights to origin and finals series which were previously on SKY. I think they will have some World Cup games as well.

I figured £9 a month for next few months was better than the SKY sports subscription. 8 matches a week is enough for me.

Really enjoying watching the Wigan match so far.  Some very exciting young players on show.  Defence isn't fantastic, and when O'Loughlin and Farrell are missing that's no surprise, so I expect Widnes to score a fair few.  But hopefully Wigan can score more :D

Leeds and Huddersfield now both comfortably ahead (on the scoreboard).  Just when you think there are upsets on the cards, the opposite happens.  Just when you think Wigan might start to put some daylight between them and Widnes on the scoreboard, Widnes score and make it a 6-point game.

16-16 at half-time.  Cracking match, but Wigan making too many errors.  Wane will give them a bollicking at half-time.

Wow!

Bad news for Dwayne, as Charnley runs the length of the pitch to go level with Tomkins as the top scorer in the league.

Ages of the players tonight:

 18 - Tierney
 21 - Charnley
 25 - Goulding
 21 - Thornley
 22 - Gelling
 20 - Powell
 18 - Williams
 29 - Lauaki
 21 - L Tomkins
 24 - Mossop
 27 - Hansen
 23 - Tuson
 20 - Burke

Replacements:
21 - Hughes
22 - Taylor
22 - Crosby
18 - Hampshire

10 out last night and a very entertaining Widnes run Leeds close, excellent game to watch.

Yeah, Widnes always score a fair few but make far too many mistakes.  Defensively they are weak and considering the chances they had in breaks maybe they should have scored a few more tries.

Leeds have some promising youngsters, but can't see that side winning anything at the end of the season, so you'll need Sinfield, Watkins, etc., back before the business end of the season.  As you know, what happens now isn't important, it's the play-offs where you need your strong players available.  Leeds should definitely finish in the top 4 though.

Wigan have O'Loughlin out for 6 weeks, and I'm thankful that it's now and not later in the season.  He's probably the key player for Wigan (along with Richards and Tomkins). 

Defo think Wigan can handle the injuries better then Leeds. But I really would not bet against Leeds vs Wigan Grand final.

Hudds away next week will be carnage.

Definitely think it'll be one of Leeds, Wigan and Warrington to win the Grand Final.


Should be a cracking match. 

http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/warriors-seal-deal-to-sign-tomkins-20130622-2opac.html

Gutted if he goes this year. Loss to super league as well as Wigan (although Leeds fans might not agree :D).

Best of luck to him. Will be interesting to see what the NZ warriors team looks like next year

Better than this year!

they are going Ok at the moment. What I meant is that they already have 2 half-decent fullbacks (Locke and Fisiahi (sp)) so it will be interesting who goes and where everyone fits in. people seem to think that Sam can slot into a halfback position but personally think that would be a shame.

Seems a strange choice of club tbh

What a game the Warrington v Wigan match is.  Hard, hard, men.

He's just scored, but that aside, this is Gelling's best game for Wigan.

What a game this is!  I'm hurting and knackered just watching it.  No idea who is going to win with just over 15 minutes to go.

Great game, and a shame Warrington just had little bit more cutting edge at the end.  Would like to see that as the Grand Final - but with O'Loughlin, McIllorum and Green back in the side.

I'm at the game on Friday against Cas, and if Wigan play at that level on Friday they'll win comfortably.

was a good game to watch, Wigan have some great talent coming through

I thought the defences were excellent but there was a lack of attacking flair from both sides.

Looks like Hull KR's Dobson is going to the NRL with Newcastle and rumour is that Salford have signed Francis Meli to go along with Adrian Morley.

Watched State of Origin 2 from Australia on Wednesday and Queensland dominated it right from the kick off, so game 3 will be the decider. Overreaction from the refs during this one where they sinbinned 4 players for a minor dust up where about a sum total of 2 punches were thrown.

Lots of over-zealous reffing this season here and in the NRL. It used to be a sin-bin for a fight, and red cards for those who join late or thrown punches at a player who is held, etc.  Now it seems that any fighting is being jumped on, and not sure it's a good thing for the game.

Nowt up with a bit of biff!

I think those reffing the game have never played it. Generally the NRL had it about right but this week was a big overreaction to what Gallen did (and got away with) in origin 1. We all love a bit of biff but I agree there should be boundaries. However the reffing in the UK has been pathetic for a while now with no consistency. The instigator should be punished as should guys running in from miles away, but sending a guy for 10 minutes for being punched seems redic in the extreme

 >:( :( :'( ;tracet; ;yellowcard; ;grr; ;tk; ;ashamed; :redcard: ;nemesis; ;snoopy'sguns; ;surrender; :dontask: ;hide; ;marks; ;shame; ;madasahatstand; ;frustrated; ;technophobe; ;smackedbottom; ;oopsy; ;booboo; ;boltpp; :pop: :tikay:

enjoyed Hull vs Wakey last night, 26-27 with plenty of action. Thought the ref did really well, gave alot of tries without bothering to look at video ref everytime.

i also enjoyed the game, really showed some heart in the second half - especially Kirmond and Amor who looked like they were injured and ready to go off a couple of times.
although the first half was a competition to see who could be the dumbest team, Hull edged it, just.

Wigan playing as well as they did last week.  Missing O'Loughlin and Sam Tomkins again - and doesn't seem the rest can perform without them.

Bad isn't good, until it gets worse.  18-4 down with about 20 minutes to go, and not looking likely to get back into the game at all.

Wow - Wigan have nicked it in the last minute!  Woeful except for the last 20 minutes, but didn't deserve the win.  Lucky.

Unlucky for Leeds there.  A draw would have been a fair result.

Great game,  can't win those without seven first team players esp a goal kicker.

Wire Players will have sore heads after the Leeds Match, they always go into Warrington Town Ctr, Hopefully Lee Briers will leave his motor at home

Seen briers out a few times in warrington. Always smashed. They always have their warrington training gear on shorts and polo shirts but obv still get in everywere, in fact last time i saw briers on he had no shoes on in the club.

Interesting latest scores:

Hull FC    10 - 12    Huddersfield Giants
Hull KR    12 - 18    Salford City Reds
Castleford Tigers    16 - 6    St Helens    

Some changes:

Hull FC    16 - 16    Huddersfield Giants    
Hull KR    18 - 18    Salford City Reds    
Castleford Tigers    16 - 12    St Helens    

Hull FC    16 - 22    Huddersfield Giants    (FT)
Hull KR    28 - 18    Salford City Reds    Full time    (FT)
Castleford Tigers    16 - 18    St Helens     (Latest)


Disappointing :(

Huddersfield are awful today.  Warrington are playing well, but Huddersfield's tackling is terrible, with only one man involved in the tackles allowing Warrington to off-load at will.

How fat and unfit is Ben Thaler? Quite ridiculous really, and he really struggled to keep up with play at times. Surely the ref should at least resemble someone who is vaguely fit?

Weirdest situation for a video ref decision:

http://www.triplem.com.au/sydney/sport/nrl/news/2013/7/streaker-at-state-of-origin-3/

:dontask:

Just watched the origin game, weirdest end to a game ever lol with the intruder on the pitch

Posted this in the Tips for Tikay thread, thought it should be posted here as well:


On Monday is the ONLY derby game in sport: Wigan v St Helens. No it is, seriously:

"The phrase most likely originated from The Derby, a horse race in England, founded by the 12th Earl of Derby in 1780, since at least as early as 1840 'derby' has been used as a noun in English to denote any kind of sporting contest. The current Earl of Derby has confirmed that his family gave their name to only two sporting events; The Horse Race and the Rugby League match between St. Helens and local rivals Wigan."


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_derby#Origin

Wigan were big favourites to beat Sintellins in this derby.  But the final 17 for Wigan has been announced, and there's no Sam, no Lockers and no Hansen.  Will make it a lot closer imo.

That drop goal deserved a lot more than one point!

Pretty freakish

Richards, Hampshire and Charnley aside - there wasn't much to rejoice in from that match for Wigan fan.  Completely rudderless without O'Loughlin in the side, and the forwards were appalling (what a difference O'Loughlin and Hansen would have made).  Obviously having Sam would have helped as well, but with three players missing the side shouldn't suddenly forget how to catch, pass and tackle.

Continue to play like that, and there'll be no silverware for Wigan this season.  Very disappointing slide in form over the past month or so.

:(

(Richards' drop goal was incredible though, bet he could drive a golf ball a few hundred yards with his right boot!)

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/video-what-a-hit-pat-richards-freak-field-goal-for-wigan-in-english-super-league/story-fni3fbgz-1226683896738

In case anyone missed it.

This is not meant to be trolling, genuinely

I watched last night, and watch some super league if I am around.

Obv I am a Union man, a game in which there are numerous issues I accept, to watchability and rule interpretation


I think the Super League quality of play, depth of player base is as weak as I have known it. The number of mistakes every game  is huge, the tactical nuances are non-existent in some games, the quality of tactical kicking is appalling

Despite that, the sheer intensity of some of these games makes them very watchable

However, we are hardly in a golden era for Super League are we? It is light years from the skill levels and "product" I watched in the state of origin recently, which was right up there


yes? no?

I'm a league man and I agree Tighty.

The last half a dozen Wakefield games I have watched have been of terrible standard in my opinion and we have won 4 of them. I enjoyed last night's game but agree it wasn't anywhere near "high quality" that the Wigan/Sts games have been in recent years but this is mainly due to the teams which were put out last night. I think there has been a definite midseason "slump" in quality. Some factors may be:

The play-off basis means that Wigan/Leeds etc can field some weaker squads where they have niggling injuries and it doesn't have a detrimental affect on their prospects.
A lot of teams have injuries and thin squads at the moment due to the number of games played.
The movement of players between SL/NRL - our best going there, no chance of SL getting the best from over there.
The weather - its hard enough game as it is without playing in 30c
The refereeing - I don't really like how the game is officiated in the SL. Too many soft/borderline penalties are given and it always favours the team with the ball.

I used to watch every available RL game I could and I hardly watched any of the Challenge Cup games last weekend. However I think Warrington have played some exceptional stuff in recent weeks.

Having said this I will revisit the statement when the season has ended and the play-offs have been done. I've been mainly watching the NRL and imo it is the best sport to watch bar none, including some British guys who are at the very top of the world game.

Super League is in a very significant downswing.  Last night's game was a prime example.  Loads of mistakes, a poor St Helens side only just beating a side that didn't know how to pass, tackle or catch.  A very poor advert for the game.

There are many problems with league at the moment, and I used to always say I'd rather watch a poor game of league over a poor game of union/football, etc., but sometimes I question that.

1.  The play-off system.  It's a joke.  A team is the most consistent over 20-odd weeks, finishes top, and then can not play in the Grand Final after only losing one game.  A team that finishes 8th (or 5th as has happened) can become 'Champions' by peaking at the end of the season for just 5 matches.  The play-off system needs adjusting so that finishing 1st or 2nd is rewarded adequately.

2.  Because of that, and the scheduling of the Challenge Cup, we see clubs put out weakened sides to save their players - as Wigan did last night and Warrington, Wigan and others have done previously.  The Challenge Cup should be played earlier in the season to complement the league, not compete with it.

3.  The bigwigs who run the league are idiots.  Lots of stupid rulings in place that are dragging the league down, including stupid rules that don't allow foreign players in a side to play in the U19s (the reserves).  So someone like Gelling (who was awful last night) comes back from injury, can't be registered with a dual-signing allowing him to get some match practice with a lower-league side and he also can't play in the U19s.  So how is he supposed to get match-practice to get back into the 1st team?

4.  The talent drain.  Rugby League's salary cap means that the best players are having their heads turned by the NRL that can pay higher salaries, and also Union (ditto).  Stars of the game like Sam Tomkins have a limited playing career spanning 15 years or so, and quite rightly they need to think about their family, etc., and look after number 1.  So it's inevitable that we'll lose these stars to the NRL or Union.  In fact, we're losing non-stars (such as Joel Tomkins) to Union because they can earn salaries that dwarf those available in league and if they do well, the exposure it far greater for them.  The league and some club owners are happy that the Wigan and Leeds conveyor-belt of new talent will continue to fill the voids that are created.  This only works for so long though, and if Tomkins goes to the NRL and is replaced by Hampshire as the new star, what happens when Hampshire does the same and there isn't a new star waiting in the wings (or at full-back or stand-off ;))?

5.  Add these things together, and you can see why clubs are struggling with crowd numbers.  I'm reluctant to travel a few hours to a match if I get there and find half the first team are being rested (for whatever reason), or the opposition have written the game off as a loss and so aren't risking any of their 50/50 players.  As they mentioned on Sky last night, Huddersfield are top of the league, but only manage to get 5,000 fans to their games (in a lovely stadium).  Only Wigan, Leeds and Saints regularly get good home attendances and take a lot of fans to away games.  The league say they want to promote the game in London to extend the game beyond the traditional league base - but the running of the Broncos/Quins league club is a joke and they don't give a toss about the fans, so much so that my brother and dad who live about 30 minutes from there and were season ticket holders, have not renewed their season tickets.


The Wigan v London game will be aired on the BBC.  It'll be another crap advert for the game as I expect it'll be very one-sided, and the French/Davies commentary will be utterly terrible as usual.

It's a brilliant sport, but it's in a crisis in this country.

http://www.loverugbyleague.com/news_12764-rfl-defend-super-league-fixture-changes.html

Sigh.

Sir Kev back last night and he made the difference in the end result. Wakey not a bad team really. A very enjoyable game and huge crowd for them!

Yeah good post.  The league season is a joke, hence why a poor Leeds team have won it the last two seasons. This should never happen.

Sometimes a sport has to accept what it is and build from within and solidify its core, none of this branching out to places where RL aint played or watched, whats the point? While the big teams flourish most of the SL teams just don't have a backing or support to really compete.

Leeds had over 18,000 last week vs Wakefield and over 14,000 for the away game last night. You have more Leeds people going to see the rugby team team than the football team. This has been built up not by just success on the field but the amazing community programe the club has developed over a long long time. Something other clubs could/should copy.

Cut the SL to 10, get promotion/relegation in, change the playoffs so its fair. Make the salary cap higher, so the big clubs can keep the top stars.

What a finish!

Speaking to a few Leeds players this week they seem more then a little up for the London game tonight, a tribute to Murray, more and more players back, not letting go of 4th place. I am hoping for a 30+ points win.

Should win by 30 points comfortably if you've got anything close to your strongest team out.  London are worse than bad.

Yeah they stunk vs Wigan it was embarrassing. Leeds starting to hit form at the right time....

Looking forward to Wigan vs Hudds tonight, fully expect tight game with Wigan edging it. Leeds at Salford I am pinning my bet on a Salford surprise win at 8/1

No O'Loughlin for Wigan, and that reduces any confidence I had for this game. Not a one man team, butewithout Lockers the team plays at a lower level. No Smith either, but less important than O'Loughlin.

Could be very close, and should be a decent match.

happy Warr only confirmed what I thought when they scrapped past a Leeds second team last month, not that great a team. Coupled with Wigan in freefall my only worry is Hudds.

Leeds hitting form at the right time and if we can get Mcguire, JJB, Moo, Bailey back before the playoffs we are in a position to win it again. If we finish 4th and play Hudds first it would be a good test for Leeds and Hudds. But I have a sneaky feeling 3rd aint out of reach, we play Wigan away last game of the season I believe it might be 3/4th place clincher.

Leeds Vs Hull tonight, think its important to continue our momentum and win this! come on Rhinos.

Hull KR 8/1 yes pls.

Result :) cluless bookies still offering huge odds on games. Widness 12/1 last night and tonight 8/1.

Good article on the 1985 Challenge Cup final between Hull and Wigan.

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/that-1980s-sports-blog/2013/aug/21/challenge-cup-final-1985-wigan-hull

The video from the article:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2b3IbRSI1io

British quartet Luke, Sam, George and Tom Burgess have created history by becoming the first set of four brothers to play top-flight rugby league together in Australia in 103 years.

Sam, who was sinbinned early on, and Luke both started and scored tries in the South Sydney Rabbitohs 32-18 victory over Wests Tigers in the NRL while twins George and Tom came into the game off the bench.

They are first set of four brothers to line up in the same Australian side since 1910 when Ray, Roy, Rex and Bernard Norman all turned out for the now defunct Annandale club.

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/JCtheMessiah/1175215_10151756000927239_191979222.jpg)

There was a good interview with the Burgess boys before the game this morning

Bad news for Wigan, as it looks like O'Loughlin is out for the rest of the season with his achillies.

If that's the case it's going to take a lot for Wigan to get to the grand final as I thinkhhe's the most important player in the side, and the team plays so much better with him.

Funny season this, we end up level on points with Wigan. Apart from the challenge cup final Wigan have dropped so badly recently I simply cannot seem them make the final. Like you say big blow with O'louglin out.

I don't place too much stock in Wigan's recent form.  In most of those games (CC matches apart) players have been injured or rested, and not just one or two players - but half a dozen at a time, and key players.  The game against Hull was a case in point, with 12 players not selected from the previous week's CC-final. 

With O'Loughlin in the side, I'd have been more confident of being able to put up a decent run-in.  But he's so central to the team's success, and I can't see Wigan winning the grand final without him in the side.

It will probably mean that Tuson steps in as cover for O'Loughlin, and although he's a decent player - he's not O'Loughlin (one of the runners for Man of Steel this year).  Hopefully, it will also mean Hampshire gets to play, as he's a cracking talent and will be a regular from next season anyway.

Talking of Man of Steel, have you seen the kits the Wigan and Leeds players will be wearing on Thursday?  Clever bit of marketing imo.

Yeah funny tops, should look good. So if we win next week we finish 3rd?

Winner plays Warrington, loser plays Huddersfield!

Nearly as bad as Ganson's video ref decision in the Hull FC v Hull KR match:

http://www.triplem.com.au/sydney/sport/video/worst-call-by-a-rugby-league-touch-judge-easts-tigers-south-logan-magpies-round-24-intrust-super-cup/

Pretty much as expected, Leeds totally dominant all game. Wigan are gone, hitting poor form at the wrong time. Leeds have now a full squad and I expect them to run Warrington close next week if not win. Wigan well they aint got a prayer vs Hudds.

Wigan are a one-man team unfortunately, and he's out for the rest of the season.  I expect Leeds or Warrington to win the GF.  Funny thing is, I think Wigan have a chance against Huddersfield, but we'll see.

Leeds will need to make more of their chances (first half they had the ball and the possession, but failed to make the most of it).

Loved the Superman shirts, and got one for my dad for his 83rd birthday (he's a Leeds fan), and it arrived yesterday in time for the game :)

In other news:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/23994269

London should just fold, plenty more deserving teams that should be in the SL.

Good little betting coup for the Bradford vs Hudds game, a lot tipping Bradford to win by 12 given Hudds named a virtual 2nd team. I think the final score was 54-4 lol.

I guess the Wigan win (congrats BTW) was not totally unexpected, but my word I was surprised.

Give the conditions and shocking display by Hudds Wigan did well to up their game from last week and deservedly won. Only watch snippets but so many mistakes, did Hudds bottle it?? I would still prefer to meet Wigan in the playoffs than Hudds, I expect them to win their next match.

Huddersfield weren't bad, Wigan were just very good.  Best some players have played in a Wigan shirt (Green, Flower and Gelling definitely), and great performances throughout the side (especially those three, Charnley, Tomkins, Farrell, Hansen, Smith, Richards and McIllorum).  Only Andy Powell's inclusion was baffling, and he looks like someone who doesn't understand the game - although when he does come to terms with the game, he's an immense unit and could make an excellent rugby league player in time.

The weather played a key part, so I hope it rains constantly until after the Grand Final :D.  Wane got the tactics spot on, and the players delivered.  Very similar to how Leeds have managed their seasons, the league position doesn't really matter and it only counts what you can do in the play-offs.  Wigan were a very different side to that of the past few months.  Without O'Loughlin I didn't think there would be enough guile or direction in the side, but the forwards did a job on the Huddersfield pack and that let Smith and Green dominate.  Brough and Robinson were largely nullified once the Huddersfield forwards tired. 

I think Leeds and Warrington would far prefer to play Huddersfield than Wigan in the play-offs now.  I honestly didn't think Wigan had that performance in them, but I was hoping they did.  My dad told me that Wigan would improve in the play-offs and he'd backed them to beat Huddersfield.  Two more games, and it's cup rugby so it's up for grabs.  Still fancy Leeds or Warrington, but not writing Wigan off.  Would be surprised if Huddersfield get to the final, and would be less surprised to see St Helens there in truth.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1ZYhVpdXbQ

:)

Thought Huddersfield were horrific, not just bad

Apart from the first twenty minutes they played wet weather rugby like I play the harmonica. Badly, and making terrible noises

Wigan's tactical kicking and nous were far superior and in Charnley they had the best finisher in the game

Huddersfield bored me rigid. They were top? Yikes.

Yeahs Hudds were shite :) But still don't believe Wigan can beat a in form top 6 team.

Huddersfield weren't able to play well.  They usually dominate up the middle, but Wigan moved their big units around defensively and tired them out.  Huddersfield don't have a plan B.  They only finished top of the league because other sides (namely Wigan, Leeds, Warrington) haven't put their best sides out in the weekly rounds and were 'happy' to drop points. The ridiculous play-off system means there's very little benefit from finishing first, especially if it means you aren't on form come the play-offs.

What changed after 15 minutes?  It wasn't the weather, as that was constant throughout.  During that opening 15 minutes, the idiot Eddie in the commentary was waxing lyrical about Brough and the Huddersfield pack being superior, etc.  Yet, Wigan managed to nullify their attack, made them force plays in the wrong part of the pitch, and ground them down.  Wigan didn't play their usual game (that is often criticised by Wigan fans) of getting the ball out wide as quickly as possible, and instead mixed things up and like I said the Wigan dominance in the forwards meant that Green and Smith had a field day; whereas Brough and Robinson were largely ineffective for Huddersfield.  They aren't effective when they're forced to play in their own half.  I don't remember Huddersfield getting the ball out to their centres and wingers at all in the game.  That was because Wigan didn't let them.

Like you said, the finished top of the league - and that was pretty much their first choice squad.  You don't become a bad side overnight.  Wigan simply showed that they're a better side, or at least can rise to the occasion and be a better side on the night.  Something Leeds have done very effectively over the years.  It's also why the play-off system needs to be changed to reward the side that is the 'best' over the season, not just for 3 games at the end of the year.

Wigan have quite a few big-game players, Huddersfield have very few - its that simple imo.

ref bottled it, how can you stay on pitch for punching someone from behind when they are walking away..

o m g benefit of doubt try? wtf is happening to our game..

Never ever a try, held up clearly.

Top 8 in the play-offs?  What's the point?

lol well played Hull

Waste of time.

Looks like it'll be Wigan v Huddersfield next week.  Hope it rains...

Tight first half, but Leeds with all the possession.  I'd expect them to come on strong in the second half as saints tire, and the fast backs make the most of the spaces that'll appear.

giving it them. Peacock losing it under our posts on the 1st :( we cant lose this we the better team.

Is this Swift bloke playing?

Told you it'd be easy for Leeds in the second half.  Never in doubt!

;whistle;

Ablett MOTM, the only choice imo. Head and shoulders above everyone else in that game.

blimey we always find a way to win :) good game.

Warrington choose Huddersfield!  Not sure I understand why, but means a cracking semi-final between Wigan and Leeds next Friday!

Good for Rhino's. I fully expect to beat Wigan. *cough*

Warrington picked Rhinos before and got beat. Hudds chocked big time Vs Wigan and have Zero big game experience, they are prone to fold over again unlike Rhinos who they know what to expect from.

Rhino's abs, smashed Wigan a few weeks ago, if they dominate field and possession again it will be the same result.

Tomkins' move announced today, hardly an out-of-the-blue announcement.

Will be massive shoes to fill, and he Richards and Mossop have their last home games for Wigan on Friday, with just one more game for Wigan after that ;)

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViacAfPzGBQ

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbHfCqiin3I

Incredible talent.

Bowen is not a bad short term replacement. The NRL is full of superb fullbacks and will be really interesting how tomkins goes. The NZ Warriors current fullback has been really good so they must really want him.

Bowen is a quality player, if his knees can survive a season.

As for Tomkins, he'll be a standout player in the NRL imo. Could also play stand-off as well as full back.

Gentle fired as Hull FC coach. If it's for rugby reasons, then that's just idiotic.

Three years since Terry Newton took his own life.

RIP

http://www.wiganwarriors.com/WContent.aspx?id=8686&type=news
www.therhinos.co.uk/news/21512.php

Would like to see Huddersfield win tonight, but can't see it happening.

Oh, hello...

Goodbye.
Tons of really basic errors in a play-off game, standard needs to improve in second half

Yeah, both sides making lots of basic errors. 

Much better second half so far imo

Game on - last ten minutes should be fun.

Game over.

repeat of last years final pls! lol,


enjoyed the game tonight very entertaining.

As a 'neutral' it was enjoyable.  As a fan of a team that could face the winner of the match in the final, it was interesting to see that neither side really excelled.  Lots of mistakes by both sides, and Huddersfield gifted Warrington 18 points by not going for the ball from kicks near their try line.  Would definitely fancy Wigan or Leeds' chances against Warrington in the final.

Tomorrow will hopefully be a cracking match.

Agreed, I think Wigan/Leeds have that extra big game factor that means whoever wins tonight will be favorites for the grand final. Warrington almost threw it away last night and are jittery.

The last few games I have seen Tompkins he has been subdued. Not his world beating self, If we are to beat Wigan tonight this pattern would need to continue. He can destroy teams if on top form. I suspect our defence will be ready to snuff any clean breaks and snuffle out alot of the offensive moves early on like Saints last week.

Wigan will miss O'Loughlin but I still think they are slight favourites on their own patch.

When we are talking about international selection I find these play-off games more meaningful as the England coach should be looking for players to perform in the bigger high pressure games, rather than scoring 4 tries against Salford for example. My observation was that some of the touted players from Huddersfield went missing last night and didn't really rise to the challenge before them - I'd include Crabtree and Ferres in that category but I do think Brough does bring something to big games, shame he's not available for England.

Seriously the first time I realised Crabtree was playing was well past the 60th min....

He had snazzy boots on. That was all I noticed.


Programme on Sky Sports now - Mal Meninga. What a player he was!

Too close to call for me.  Not going to be much in it.  O'Loughlin a miss for Wigan, and a big one.  Delaney a big miss for Leeds, and is JJB fit enough?  Are any of the players fit enough, as they all play with knocks and niggles.

"Footballers spend 90 minutes pretending they're injured.  Rugby league players spend 80 minutes pretending they're not."

Great first half.  Wigan look fitter and less tired (as they would be after the week off), and Leeds relying on all their guile and experience to stay in the game.

Wonder if the hard work that Leeds put in during the first 40 minutes will hurt them in the second half, or if they can do what they're good at and pull the results out of nowhere?

Peacock is an absolute beast. The epitome of man of steel

Can't argue with him or O'Loughlin getting it imo.  Both proper rugby league players.

Was just saying how immense Harrison Hansen has been in this match.  Then he makes one mistake, and Leeds score! 

Yeah but peacock has played virtually every week, unfortunately SOL misses quite a few games.

Leeds took their try really well there

O'Loughlin was pretty much ever-present until his recent injury.

Hansen my MOTM so far.

Leeds dead on their feet.  Warrington and Wigan have done what Leeds have managed to perfect in previous seasons - peaking at the right time for the play-offs.  Does show how daft the play-off system is though, when the 'league' champions are those that can keep their squad fit for the play-off matches.  Not how it should be.

Richards, Tomkins and Mossop get another game in the cherry and white.  Looking forward to next weekend now.

Gutted, but no problem with the better team winning. Too many injured/tired to make a dent in a in form Wigan, i am off to sulk.

Anyone know anything about tickets for next week. I went last year and would be interested in going again but tbh I was so smashed I don't remember much of the game so considering just going into Manchester for the atmosphere and watching the game in the pub but if I can get some cheap tickets I may  change my mind!

Tickets go on general sale from the clubs on Monday.

Warrington are very slightly the bookies' favourites with a 2-point start.

Could be very close indeed, and good news for Wigan fans is that Sean O'Loughlin is in the 19-man squad after being declared fit after his achillies injury.

good luck, not too fussed who wins as long as its an exciting game.

I'm not fussed if it's a good game or not, as long as Wigan win :D. Can't see it being a bad game though. Wigan have to be in their faces and stop Higham and Monaghan doing their thing. Win that battle and Wigan are halfway there. McIllorum and Lockers key in that respect.

Westwood with a cheap and nasty shot, punching Green in the face whilst he's held on the floor.

Somehow the touch-judge 10 metres away didn't see it.

16-6 at HT.  Wigan not out of it yet, but need to convert the chances they're making.   

Wigan in front.  Might just be wishful thinking, but Warrington are looking tired to me.  With Ratchford off as well now, it's looking good for Wigan!

Wow, what a tremendous comeback by Wigan, these RL lads have real spirit, backbone and heart.

BOOM!

Not bad from 16-2 (?) down.

Great, great spirit.

Not done yet, but I'm getting a bit excited!

It is now.

Amazing stuff.

Shaun Wane walks into a bar























...says "MAKE MINE A DOUBLE!"

 :D

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/JCtheMessiah/416826_1.jpg)

Play-off system is still a joke, and makes a mockery of the idea of a league when all that matters is peaking for the play-offs at the end of the season.

But, at the moment - I DON'T CARE!!!!

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/JCtheMessiah/sem.gif)

 ;cheerleader; ;cheerleader;


Great send off performance for Tompkins.

Good luck Sam , come back soon.

Sam, Richards and Mossop all played their part today. Great performances from front to back.

Big shoes to fill next season, but we'll worry about in February :D

Anyone going to any of the RL World Cup games?
Can't really travel far with having a relatively newborn so have opted for the Final at Old Trafford (£25 in the Stretford End) and two game package at Headingley on successive Fridays (most likely 2 NZ games) for a combined total of £22.50. Seems good value to me.

The announced squads in the main look really strong to me - NZ and Australia especially. Fringe teams like Tonga/Fiji/Italy also look dangerous with a lot of NRL experience.

Not sure what is happening with Sonny Bill Williams and NZ though - wasn't in the squad because of "other commitments" but apparently announced he now wants to play about 12 hours later. Not sure how that leaves the NZ squad and the bloke who might have to make way for him.

Finally a main sponsor for the league. First Utility, coincidentally my energy supplier. I doubt its alot of money.