St Helens v Catalans Dragons: Betfred Super League predictions, preview & tips

Free rugby league tips, best bets and analysis for St Helens v Catalans Dragons in the Betfred Super League playoff semi-finals on Friday.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Mix & Main Event, 7.45pm Friday

Best bet

Catalans Dragons +12
3pts Evs bet365, Betfred, Hills

Match preview

St Helens go to post in this Betfred Super League playoff semi-final clash as red-hot favourites to get the better of the Catalans Dragons and widely fancied to win the Grand Final in Hull on November 27.

However, those views may be made to look foolish after their 80-minute tussle with the French raiders.

Your write Saints off at your peril but there have been signs of weakness during the final weeks of the regular season which finished with something of a whimper by their high standards.

St Helens topped the table for most of the season but defeats in their final two fixtures saw them relinquish top spot and hand the league leaders' shield to bitter rivals Wigan.

As if losing two games on the bounce for just the second time this season wasn't bad enough, Saints posted a total of just 16 points in those games against Salford and Wigan.

That's an alarming drop for a side who scored at an average of almost 28 points per game during their 17 regular-season matches.

A punishing schedule can be blamed for the dip in performances but Catalans have had anything but a hard time recently.

The Dragons played just twice in October and have taken to the field just four times since the end of September.

They should arrive fresh for this contest and that gives them a better chance of qualifying for the Grand Final than their odds suggest.

The Dragons are sure to be fired-up but they don't have a great record in this fixture having lost five of the last six meetings. However, last week's 26-14 win over Leeds should ensure they suit up in good spirits.

Whether it's enough to see off the Saints remains to be seen but a 12-point handicap start appears generous and that looks the best bet in what should be a cracking contest.

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