There is one match in the Super League on Saturday and it comes from France as the Catalans Dragons play their first home match of the season when they entertain a Hull FC side who will be energised after last week’s emphatic win.
Catalans might have lost their season opener in foul conditions in Wigan last week but they put up a strong enough performance to suggest that the pre-season optimism around them was entirely justified. It was clear that they are going to look to throw the ball around this year but driving rain at the DW never assisted that.
The Dragons will be without Paul Aiton for this match which is a blow after he was injured on his debut last week. Remi Casty is also missing but on the bright side Thomas Bosc returns from injury. Conditions should favour the Dragons more in this one.
Hull FC were another side who had plenty of optimism around them before a ball was kicked this season and they began to justify that when they overwhelmed Salford at the KC last weekend. Given what Salford have done since that result looks huge now but the Black and Whites need to back that win up with another big performance here.
Hull have their captain Gareth Ellis back for the first time since July so that will be a further boost to them after last week’s win. On the flip side Mahe Fonua will be missing for a few weeks after picking up an injury. Hull’s forwards will need to stand up and be counted in this match.
Last week’s results have made this an intriguing encounter but we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that the Dragons are awesome at home and for the last year or so Hull have struggled on the road. If that trend is to continue then a four point start might not be enough for the visitors here.
Catalans showed good signs last week and in conditions where they are going to be able to throw the ball around with comfort and confidence I think they might take some stopping. The likes of Carney, Myler, Gigot and Richards coupled with the mite and power of Taylor and Stewart can be too much for Hull here.
Back Catalans (-4) to beat Hull FC for a 4/10 stake at 1.80 with Ladbrokes
