Super League: Round 3 - Bradford Bulls vs Wigan Warriors

Bradford Bulls vs Wigan Warriors (+4/8pts)

Former Bradford coach Brian Noble returns to Odsal for the first time since his controversial move across the Pennines to the Wigan Warriors.

Noble won’t be the only one returning to Yorkshire club, one time fan’s favourites Michael Withers and Stuart Fieldan return to face the side where they achieved so much.

But let’s not forget, there is a rugby match taking place here.

On paper, form and previous meetings between the two sides you have to fancy Bradford at home to overcome what seems to be a rather slim handicap (+4pts).

Odsal has not been a happy hunting ground for Wigan over recent years, losing their last four visits by scores of 34 v 12, 40 v 8, 38 v 12 and 34 v 6. They have had a somewhat lacklustre start to the season, whereas the Bulls defend a 100% record after 2 Rounds.

Looking at both squads it’s hard to find an area where Wigan look significantly stronger. Rumours surround Trent Barrett fitness, a tough man to replace for any side. Bradford look big and powerful in the forwards, quality in the half backs and world class throughout the back-line.

They should out muscle and out score this wayward Wigan outfit.

Bradford comfortable win for me!

Recommendation: Bradford -4pts @ 1.90 Will Hills (1pt)
Prediction – Bradford 24 v 12 Wigan
(Scale 1 - 5)

Bradford Bulls 20-man squad: Morrison, Burgess, McKenna, Cook, I. Harris, McAvoy, Evans, St Hilaire, B. Harris, Langley, Newton, Feather, Deacon, Vagana, Vainikolo, Hape, Solomona, Platt, Lynch, Henderson.

Wigan Warriors 20-man squad: Ashton, Calderwood, Bailey, Withers, Richards, Barrett, Leuluai, Fielden, Higham, Paleaaesina, Hock, Fletcher, O’Loughlin, Vaealiki, Millard, Prescott, Hansen, Goulding, Hill, O’Carroll.

Good luck all!!