The final round of the Super 8s stage of the Super League season takes place this week and as ever it begins on Thursday night. This time it begins with the table topping decider in the qualifiers between Leeds Rhinos and Leigh Centurions at Headingley.
In terms of the big picture this game means little in that both sides know they will be in the Super League next season but a new trophy has been put together for this match so they will have something to play for if they want it.
Leeds Rhinos
Leeds had won every match in the qualifiers until they lost at Huddersfield last week so they head into this one in second place in the table but they know they have much the better point difference so a win here will secure top spot should they so want it.
I would imagine of more importance for them would be to deliver a big performance to end the season with and send their home fans away happy after a tough beginning to the campaign where they didn’t play very well at all for a few months.
Leigh Centurions
It has been a perfect six wins from six for the Centurions and they head into this match with their danders high and morale very good. Getting back to the Super League was the main aim for Leigh after they came agonisingly close last season so they can play this match with a bit of freedom and send out a warning for the rest ahead of next season.
It is now 19 matches since Leigh last tasted defeat and that is a run that they will be proud of and keen to extend so I’m expecting them to be a very tough opponent for the Rhinos in this match regardless of the fact there isn’t anything competitive on the game.
Team News
Leeds go into this match without some real big players. Keith Galloway and Rob Burrow have been added to an injury list which already included Danny Maguire, Brett Delaney, Mitch Garbutt and Mitch Achurch. Cameron Smith is one of those added to the squad to cover.
Leigh have recalled half a dozen players to their squad for the game with Gregg McNally, Mickey Higham and Danny Tickle among them. The game offers another chance for us all to see the wonderfully named Fuifui Moimoi.
Betting
I don’t normally take on Leeds but they aren’t playing for much here and I’m sure Leigh would love their scalp on their CV so I’m in the camp of the Centurions here. They have been pretty ruthless so far in this qualifiers competition and there’s no sign of them letting up now.
With players coming back who have been rested giving Leigh a big advantage over Leeds who have lost even more players in the last week I’m siding with the visitors here. Those who want to play safer can get Leigh Centurions with a 12 start at a decent price but I’m expecting an away win here.
Tips
Back Leigh Centurions to beat Leeds Rhinos for a 3/10 stake at 3.80 with Unibet
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