Betfred Super League: Catalans v Huddersfield preview and betting tips

Catalans v Huddersfield
Sky Sports Arena, 5pm Saturday

Big things were expected of Catalans Dragons heading into the new Betfred Super League season but, despite fielding a number of their star recruits, they barely made a mark in their round-one defeat at Castleford.

Steve McNamara's Dragons were comfortably swept aside 20-4 by the Tigers but a return to their Perpignan fortress can help them make amends at the second time of asking.

It will take time for Sam Tomkins and Matty Smith to settle into their new surroundings but there is undoubted quality in their ranks - as demonstrated by their landmark Ladbrokes Challenge Cup success last year - and a top-five spot and a place in the playoffs is not beyond them.

Opponents Huddersfield were predicted to struggle this season by many observers and nothing in their 34-14 loss at home to Salford dispelled that theory.

The Giants made significant strides after Simon Woolford took the reins midway through 2018 but the Australian has a lengthy list of absentees including ace England winger Jermaine McGillvary, and it may be some time until we see the best of the Yorkshire outfit.

With that in mind, backing a home win by up to two converted scores looks prudent.

Warrington looked like Grand Final favourites should in their opening demolition of Leeds and the Wolves are strong 16-point jollies to see off Hull KR in Saturday's other encounter.

Recommendation
Catalans to win by one to 12 points
2pts 23-10 188Bet

Follow us on Twitter

Like us on Facebook RacingPostSport