Wigan v Leeds: predictions and rugby league tips: Rhinos can charge to victory

Free rugby league tips, best bets and analysis for Wigan Warriors v Leeds Rhinos in the Betfred Super League

Where to watch

Sky Sports Arena, 8pm Friday

Best bet

Leeds Rhinos +6
2pts 10-11 bet365

Match preview

Betfred Super League big guns Wigan Warriors and Leeds Rhinos made contrasting starts to the season but both should have been satisfied with their performance.

Wigan profited from a sloppy first-half showing from Hull KR to open their account at the first time of asking, whereas Leeds were worn down late on by Warrington having played with 12 men for over an hour of their season opener.

Although they went down 22-20, there were definitely some positive signs from Leeds, who have recruited well in their pursuit of a first Grand Final appearance since 2017.

New signing James Bentley is suspended for the trip to the DW Stadium after he was sent off after just 16 minutes of his Rhinos debut, but coach Richard Agar has an otherwise first-choice squad to choose from.

Wigan ended 2021 with a whimper as they were dumped out of the playoffs by Leeds, who twice won to nil at the DW Stadium last season.

They finished fifth last term but only basement boys Leigh (356) scored fewer points that the Warriors (387) and it is an area which will have been high on the to-do list of new boss Matt Peet.

Five tries in their opening win at Hull KR will have been a welcome sight in that regard, but Leeds posted almost 200 points more than Wigan last term and the Rhinos have undoubtedly beefed up their backline in the off-season.

Stand-off Blake Austin could widen that gulf if he makes his Rhinos bow on Friday, and rising star Harry Newman may return at centre after missing out last weekend.

After a spell in the Super League doldrums things are undoubtedly looking brighter for Leeds, who look the pick with a six-point start on the handicap.

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