Despite both sides languishing behind leaders Castleford Tigers in the Super League table, any Rugby League encounter between the Leeds Rhinos and St Helens is certain to gain vast amounts of interest from supporters of both teams and neutrals. The two most successful teams in British Rugby League history met on the opening day of the season, with St Helens narrowly coming out on top by 6 points to 4. Many bookmakers are offering bets on the match, with little to choose between the duo coming into the encounter. Let’s take a look at the two teams, as well as our betting tips for the match.
Leeds Rhinos
Leeds have won 12 of their 19 Super League matches so far this season, leaving them eight points behind league leaders Castleford. The Rhinos will be without Danny McGuire and Jamie Jones-Buchanan for the match Headingley Stadium, with the duo facing suspension. Leeds will also be without the likes of Rob Burrow and Brett Ferres, who are both suffering from long-term injuries. The Rhinos had been on a three-match winning streak, before coming unstuck against Castleford last time around.
St Helens
As for the Saints, they have stuttered throughout the campaign, however a last-gasp victory over Salford last time around will mean that they are in confident mood heading into the match. St Helens will be without centre Mark Percival however, who is serving a one-match ban for kicking the ball after a try against Salford. Having been 16 points down against their close rivals, head coach Justin Holbrook will be hoping his team can compete from the off against the Rhinos. However, St Helens have failed to win a Super League match away from the Totally Wicked Stadium since May when they trashed Hull FC.
Top Betting Tips
Given the form of the two teams so far this season, along with the Rhinos dominance at home, it is difficult to look beyond a Leeds win on Thursday night.
For those looking to take advantage of this match, William Hill offer the Rhinos odds of 8/11 to overcome rivals St Helens, which we believe is worth utilising. Meanwhile for those looking to predict a more specific score-line, our tip is to bet on Leeds to win by a margin of 6-10 points, which can be backed at 5/1 at William Hill.