2022 Super League Team-by-Team Preview

 

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In this post, we'll list all the Super League squads along with the ins and outs for you for all the 12 teams. I'll also give you my thoughts on each side ahead of the new season, so you can come back at the end of the year to see how wrong I've got everything!

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Gains:

George Lawler (Hull KR), Callum McLelland (Leeds), Alex Sutcliffe (Leeds), Mahe Fonua (Hull FC), Jake Mamo (Warrington), Joe Westerman (Wakefield), Kenny Edwards (Huddersfield), Bureta Faraimo (Hull FC)

Losses:

Oli Holmes (Warrington), Peter Mata'utia (Warrington), Lewis Bienek (London Broncos), Michael Shenton (retired), Grant Millington (retired), Jesse Sene-Lefao (Featherstone), Alex Foster (Newcastle)

Mark’s view:

The biggest change at Cas is the change of coach. Will that bring a change in style to a more physical power game from the Powell flowing finesse structure of recent years. With Lee Radford bringing in his big physical outside backs from Hull FC in to Cas, you have to think it's a change in direction. That's a worry for this year as it means most of the squad and even some of the new signings aren't from that style. So I worry about maybe some disjointed performances early doors. It's great they still have Paul McShane, the obvious choice for new captain, although they've lost some real leadership on the playing staff with the players that retired and the pair that followed Powell to Wire. Mavericks and wildcards like Mamo, Edwards and Westerman are a different type to the players that have left, but could offer entertainment even if it's not the classy Cas style the jungle has become accustomed to. The final thing for me on this Cas side is the halves. Lots of talent in there with the starters and the depth behind them. Lots of talent, but also there is some inconsistency, of both performance and availability. How Trueman bounces back from a challenging year could be the difference between playoff contention or an unremarkable lower half season.

Mark’s prediction: 

9th

Gains:

Mitchell Pearce (Knights), Dylan Napa (Bulldogs), Tyrone May (Panthers)

Losses:

Joel Tomkins (retired), James Maloney (Lezignan), Jason Batieri (Lezignan), Lambert Belmas (Lezignan)

Mark’s view:

One aging NRL winning half moves on and another moves in. I have to expect Les Dracs will be there or thereabouts again this year. That young French squad depth that I had misplaced concern about in 2021 is now a year more experienced and game proven. There is a generally settled nature to the squad, the leadership group and the off-field staff, so the performance level of 2021 shouldn't fall off really. And their recruitment, whilst there is a whiff of character concerns in their pasts - isn't there with most Catalans NRL signings - what they've done is brought in three former NRL winners. Pearce replaces Maloney and the other two feel like upgrades more than replacements.

Mark’s prediction: 

3rd

Gains:

Theo Fages (St Helens), Tui Lolohea (Salford), Chris Hill (Warrington), Nathan Mason (Leigh), Danny Levi (Knights), Innes Senior (Wakefield, loan return), Seb Ikahihifo (Salford, loan return), Oli Roberts (Salford, loan return)

Losses:

Lee Gaskell (Wakefield), James Cunningham (Toulouse), Joe Wardle (Leigh), Aidan Sezer (Leeds), Kenny Edwards (Castleford), Nathaniel Peteru (released), Sam Wood (Hull KR), Darnell McIntosh (Hull FC), Nathan Peats (Albi), Ronan Michael (York, loan)

Mark’s view:

There's been quite a big player turnover following what was really a disappointing first season under Ian Watson last year. What has happened though is Watson has brought in some key lieutenants that can deliver on the project, instead of act against it. Theo Fages was, for me, the best Super League half available in the off-season, and Tui Lolohea was at his best under Watson at Salford. Chris Hill brings huge experience, and 2021 was a season where he did seem to stall the apparent decline in his performance and abilities, so Huddersfield will hope there's something left in the tank. When I look down the list of losses, the only one that stands out as not really being adequately replaced is McIntosh. The Giants have named full back Golding in a starting wing squad number, and the Senior twins will need to show much more than I feel they have so far to fill in what McIntosh offered at his best. Outside back is the area of the squad I have concerns over for this side. Maybe points scoring might remain an issue, but I expect them to be closer to what many (me included) expected last year.

Mark’s prediction: 

6th

Gains:

Darnell McIntosh (Huddersfield), Joe Lovodua (Rabbitohs), Kane Evans (Warriors), Luke Gale (Leeds)

Losses:

Mahe Fonua (Castleford), Bureta Faraimo (Castleford), Masi Matongo (York), Marc Sneyd (Salford)

Mark’s view:

This is not your Lee Radford Hull FC. Gone are the big wingers and the mid-field metronome that were so crucial to those Challenge Cup successes of half a decade ago. What is there now is a skilful and pacy looking three-quarter line in, from available info, the shortest side in the league. There is decent depth across the board, other than half back, where really only young Ben McNamara offers depth, and that proved to be an issue at times last year, and with two starting halves at the older end that could be a lingering concern. The other lingering concern is whether these playmakers can all get on with each other and the rest of their team. There is a feeling from the outside looking in that the 1, 6 & 7 all have a streak of petulance in them, and if the chips are down how will that play out. Maybe this perception is nonsense, Luke Gale has been named captain after all, so he must be making a positive impression inside the camp. I just feel now Hull FC need to show me something for me to believe they're anything other than midtable with a week 1 playoff departure their absolute peak. Hopefully for black and white fans, they'll show it this year.

Mark’s prediction: 

7th

Gains:

Lachlan Coote (St Helens), Sam Wood (Huddersfield), Frankie Halton (Featherstone), Greg Richards (London Broncos), Phoenix Laulu-Tongaga'e (Keighley, loan return), Tom Garrett (Dewsbury)

Losses:

Greg Minikin (Warrington), George Lawler (Castleford), Adam Quinlan (released), Owen Harrison (Dewsbury), Anesu Mudoti (Keighley), Joe Keyes (Halifax), Muizz Mustapha (Leeds, loan return), Tom Whur (Rochdale, loan)

Mark’s view:

2021 went almost as well as it could have done for the Robins. They surpassed expectations and entertained everyone along the way. And then they went and signed one of the best players on the league in Lachlan Coote, to replace the talented yet injury ridden Quinlan. So they'll be hoping for more of the same out of their experienced and skilful back line. That said, they’ve taken a punt on a few Championship players and their pack isn't particularly star-studded. Outside back depth is a little light too. Sure, they'll be enjoyable to watch again in 2022, and Tony Smith might still have some ideas to surprise a few teams, but I just can't see them making the waves they did last year sorry Robins fans.

Mark’s prediction: 

8th

Gains:

David Fusitu'a (Warriors), Aidan Sezer (Huddersfield), Blake Austin (Warrington), James Bentley (St Helens), Muizz Mustapha (Hull KR, loan return)

Losses:

Konrad Hurrell (St Helens), Robert Lui (retired), King Vuniyayawa (Salford), Callum McLelland (Castleford), Alex Sutcliffe (Castleford), Luke Briscoe (Featherstone), Luke Gale (Hull FC), Corey Hall (Wakefield)

Mark’s view:

Leeds seem to be the team that many observers expect to progress this year - they're a lot of people's pick for dark horses in the trophy shake up, and in fact the SLP voters have them up for the cup. It's easy to see why with a big splash on a new half pairing, one that played 55 games in combination in the NRL, with an overall winning record. Fusitu'a is also being heralded as an impressive signing, although he's only scored 6 tries in 31 games for club and country in the last three years so some of the excitement should be tempered - but then, Ryan Hall came back from the NRL with an even worse record and did ok last year! The top 20 players in their squad are arguably a match for anyone else, and there is plenty of talent and a smattering of experience in the young players that make up the rest of the squad. They should be competitive this year. But I'd be surprised if they lifted silverware personally. One other thing to note, on the listed available numbers at least, they are the lightest squad in the league. Whether that will be a factor will be found out through the year.

Mark’s prediction: 

5th

Gains:

Shane Wright (Cowboys), Brodie Croft (Broncos), Ryan Brierley (Leigh), King Vuniyaywa (Leeds), Amir Bourouh (Wigan), Sitaleki Akuala (Warrington), Deon Cross (Widnes), Marc Sneyd (Hull FC), Tim Lafai (Eels), Alex Gerrard (Leigh)

Losses:

Pauli Pauli (York), Kevin Brown (retired), Dec Patton (Bradford), Tui Lolohea (Huddersfield), Lee Mossop (retired), Seb Ikahihifo (Huddersfield, loan return), Ed Chamberlain (Leigh), Oli Roberts (Huddersfield, loan return), Krisnan Inu (Lezignan), Ata Hingano (Leigh)

Mark’s view:

It's a big turnover at Salford, including another change at head coach, although this time it is an internal promotion that has some ties to the successful Watson era, but it's again someone with no experience of a head coach role in Super League. Add in to that a new half back pairing and a necessary change in team leadership with captain Mossop and experienced Brown retiring. The only stable positions from a year ago are the wingers and the hooker, but otherwise from a mix of injury and squad changes, they will feel like a new side. The pack is a concern for me, although the late addition of Alex Gerrard adds a bit of depth. I'm not quite sure that is enough. And with the off field uncertainties about where this team can play in future years, it's a precarious time - this side needs to gel faster than I expect it to, I can't see better than bottom three for them unfortunately.

Mark’s prediction: 

11th

Gains:

Konrad Hurrell (Leeds), Joey Lussick (Eels), Curtis Sironen (Sea Eagles), James Bell (Leigh), Will Hopoate (Bulldogs), Daniel Hill (Widnes)

Losses:

James Bentley (Leeds), Theo Fages (Huddersfield), Lachlan Coote (St Helens), Nico Rizelli (released), Aaron Smith (Leigh, loan), Josh Eaves (Newcastle), Joel Thompson (retired), Tom Nisbet (Leigh, loan), Kevin Naiqama (Roosters)

Mark’s view:

When you look at the list of losses, St Helens will be changing some key parts to their team this year - Coote and Naiqama have had three seasons where all they've known is Grand Final glory, with Bentley and Thompson playing their parts in that too. And Fages has been a big part of their success in his six seasons at Saints. Yet despite this turnover, they're still favourites this year. That's because they've seemingly planned well for this transition. Jack Welsby, twice the SLP Young Player of the Year, once the Super League Young Player of the Year, has been seemingly building towards the full-time fullback spot, and Lewis Dodd was brought along to be prepared for the starting halfback role during a successful 2021 for him. Hopoate, Sironen and Bell come in as sound replacements for Naiqama, Bentley and Thompson. And for some reason Konny Hurrell is there too. Then the surprise signing, Joey Lussick, great at Salford, underused at Parramatta, and now here to spell James Roby towards his eventual retirement. It could be a brilliant bit of business. So are there any concerns? Well, a couple of injuries in the spine and depth will start to be tested, and there's still the concern Kristian Wolff's style will make everyone fall to sleep. But, with Big Al in his testimonial year, if he stays fit, he's such a weapon that had no real equal in the competition, I think they win the Grand Final again. From 2nd again.

Mark’s prediction: 

2nd

Gains:

James Cunningham (Huddersfield), Gadwin Springer (Featherstone), Matty Russell (Leigh), Chris Hankinson (Wigan)

Losses:

Remi Casty (retired), Jy Hitchcox (Leigh), Bastian Ader (Limoux), Johnathon Ford (released)

Mark’s view:

I was really excited about the proposition of Toulouse joining Super League, and I was pleased that they largely kept their very successful Championship side together under their impressive head coach Sylvain Houles. And I still expect them to be skilful, entertaining and fun to watch. But, there is a cloud over them on the eve of the season, with captain Johno Ford leaving just a couple of weeks before the new season, question marks over their other star man Mark Kheirallah and on the Covid vaccination status of their other members of their squad, in the face of strict rules on professional sportspeople in France. They already come in to the season with the oldest and smallest squad. It's a worry. Particularly for a newly promoted side that do things a little different, and need a good start to the season, to get themselves in a strong position before ther other teams get chance to work them out a little. A concern is they need to bring a couple of men in, but it's too late to make well considered replacements or additions, so they might have to bring in a few poor fits for them to have squad depth. I wish I could say I think they'll be safe, but I think 11th now would be a big success.

Mark’s prediction: 

12th

Gains:

Lee Gaskell (Huddersfield), Liam Hood (Leigh), Tom Lineham (Warrington), Sadiq Adebiyi (London Broncos), Jai Whitbread (Leigh), Corey Hall (Leeds), Thomas Minns (Featherstone/Newcastle), John Davetanivalu (union)

Losses:

Joe Westerman (Castleford), Josh Wood (Barrow), Kyle Wood (Halifax), Innes Senior (Huddersfield, loan return), Alex Walker (released), Ollie Greensmith (Dewsbury), Chris Green (Leigh), Joe Arundel (Halifax), Ryan Hampshire (released), Connor Bailey (Newcastle)

Mark’s view:

10 out and 8 in at Wakefield suggests a big turnover for Willie Poching's first full season in charge. But really, it's only eth hooker and loose forward spots that see a real change. But both see a downgrade for me. It's Hood and kids at hooker, after Kyle Wood had been such an influence in this side in previous years, helping make the halves better in my view. The same can be said for ball playing loose forward Westerman, who was very good in the first half of 2021 particularly. They don't have another player like him. How far Wakefield can go will mostly depend on how fit their three-quarter line can stay, as they have tyr-scoring ability in that first choice group of Johnstone, Tupou, Lyne & Lineham for sure. If they can play most of the games, they should be safe, and pick up the odd top half of the table scalp, although I don't expect them to be challenging the top half.

Mark’s prediction: 

10th

Gains:

Peter Mata'utia (Castleford), Greg Minikin (Hull KR), Oli Holmes (Castleford), James Harrison (Featherstone), Billy Magoulias (Sharks), Joe Bullock (Wigan)

Losses:

Jake Mamo (Castleford), Tom Lineham (Wakefield), Sitaleki Akaoula (Salford), Blake Austin (Leeds), Chris Hill (Huddersfield), Samy Kibula (Bradford), Nathan Roebuck (Keighley)

Mark’s view:

The main question for Wire is how well will they adapt to a more flowing attack of Powell, compared to the much more conservative (with a small c) pattern of play favoured by the departed Steve Price. I think they do have the right players for Powell's style, but it might still take time. Other than bringing in a few Powell literate players, I'm not sure there's any real significance in the transfers. Other than to note obviously Chris Hill was such a mainstay for so long that there will be some leadership to replace there, but Wire had been transitioning away from Hill's influence and presence for a couple of years anyway. To an extent, spine depth is a concern, with so much of the salary cap put on the starting 6, 7 & 9. But testimonial man Stef Ratchford has the versatility to cover that off. With the experience and ability of their first choice 17, this side has the quality to come good, and potentially entertain a bit under Powell. I expect a slow first month but a strong season overall.

Mark’s prediction: 

1st

Gains:

Abbas Miski (London Broncos), Kaide Ellis (Dragons), Patrick Mago (Rabbitohs), Cade Cust (Sea Eagles), Iain Thornley (Leigh), Ramon Silva (London Broncos)

Losses:

Jackson Hastings (Wests Tigers), Joe Bullock (Warrington), Oliver Gildart (Wests Tigers), Amir Bourouh (Salford), Tony Clubb (retired), Mitch Clark (Newcastle), Dom Manfredi (retired), Chris Hankinson (Toulouse)

Mark’s view:

You might have heard me say it already, I imagine I'll say it a few more times too, I fear/think 2022 will be year 2 of a 3 year trophy free spell at Wigan. A fairly young and physically squad has added an element of size from down under with Mago and Ellis, who should strengthen what was an underpowered pack in 2021. Wigan now have good options and strong depth in the pack. Losing main man Jackson Hastings is somewhat of a blow, although Hastings was so dominant that at times it hindered the team in 2021, despite his own brilliance. I'm optimistic that Cade Cust will be a capable replacement. And Wigan have options in the spine too. However, for Wigan to be more than also-rans they need Bevan French to come back, get match fit, and play plenty of games. French and Field are rapid, and Marshall is nippy on the wing, but otherwise Wigan's speed isn't scary. French though scares opponents. With him, they have a threatening backline, without him they have good but not exhilarating backs.

Mark’s prediction: 

4th

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2021 Super League Team-by-Team Preview

The 2021 Super League season is only two weeks away and I'm excited. So I've taken a look at how all the sides are shaping up for the new season.

This isn't a predictions piece, you'll need to wait another week for our first proper podcast episode of the year for that. Although you might get a sense of who I think will go well and who might struggle. (our predictions form is open until 9pm on Tuesday 16 MArch, so get on it now if you haven't already! Click HERE)

This is my overview of the ins and outs, the key men for their sides, the young players I'll be keeping an eye out for, and any strengths and weaknesses I see in each squad. You might agree with some of it. You will disagree with plenty of it. Don't let it knock your own optimism for your team's season though, this is prime optimism time after all! Enjoy.

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Gains:

Niall Evalds, Lewis Bienek, Suaia Matagi, Jordan Turner

Losses:

Jordan Rankin, Matt Cook, Mike McMeeken, Junior Moors, Callum Turner, Bailey Hodgson

Last Season:

8th in Super League

6th Round of the Challenge Cup

My take:

Castleford have done some good business. Niall Evalds could be one of the signings of the season, he's a proven talent and could be the piece that Castleford have been missing since that fateful drugs test in 2017. But I think they're maybe missing a little more now than just that piece. And this aging squad needs a good start as well as some injury luck, which with Sosaia Feki already out for most if not all of the year, they've started over par one the first hole. It would be easy to say Paul McShane is their key man - but he was great enough to be Man of Steel in 2020 and Cas only finished 8th and fell out of the cup at the first opportunity. Watts and Millington are their key men for me, they need to be injury free and capable of the sort of minutes they were in 2019 and before. Also, Cas don't really have adequate cover for Jake Trueman, a genuine all around threat, it is to be hoped for the Tigers and for the fans of Super League that his niggling injuries of 2020 are behind him. As I've said, they're an aging squad - only Leigh and Salford come in to the season with a higher average age. That doesn't mean there isn't a young star in the making to talk about. Barrie McDermott recently compared Jacques O'Neill to Terry Newton, and I think that's a fair comparison of his potential. If prime Newton is the ceiling for this boy's talent then we've got a feisty future international on our hands. I think O'Neill's passing game needs to develop before it's Newton-like, but his attitude and effort are right there. Of the other young Tigers - I've resisted the urge to call them Tiger cubs - only Lewis Peachey has seen much first team action so far, but in Brad Martin and Lewis Bienek they do have some forwards with size and potential, who may need to make their mark in the second half of the season, when the games come thick and fast and they older established guys will need some managing.

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Gains:

Gil Dudson, Mike McMeeken, Dean Whare

Losses:

Antoni Maria, Sam Moa, Mickael Simon, David Mead, Remi Casty, Lucas Albert, Lewis Tierney, Isreal Folau

Last Season:

4th in Super League

Quarter final of Challenge Cup

My take:

The first choice 13 is high calibre. even with the likely departure of Isreal Folau. Dean Whare is a very good replacement for him. Gil Dudson is a proven player as a replacement for Remi Casty. And Mike McMeeken will go well in this side I'm fairly confident. The rest of the line-up is the side that went well last year, when there were able to get their games on. Key to how they will go must be star man Sam Tomkins. He was back close to his very best at times in 2020. And Tom Davies really was one of the best wingers in the league, he might not be as elusive as some or as spectacular as others, but his try-rate last year was the best in the league. It does feel like les Dracs lack depth though this year, other than the back row where they are loaded. I don't really see any three-quarters depth in the squad - noting it's gutting for Artur Romano that he's out for the year already. A significant part of their depth is from unrealised talent - I like the looks of Paul Seguier, Mickael Goudemand and Lambert Belmas, but none of them have consistently nailed down a match day squad spot yet. They need to start producing consistently, I hope they can as it makes France a better World Cup prospect. There is also quite a bit of untested youth filling out the squad list. Coretin Le Cam is the tallest man in Super League, hopefully his play can elevate to the top level along with the other first team squad newcomers, as sides will need to use their full squads again this year with multiple two-game-weeks. It will be interesting if the Dragons go looking for midseason reinforcements and where these can come from. I think they'll need to find a gem of a winger from somewhere, and maybe a half back too, should the injuries hit.

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Gains:

Jack Ashworth, James Cunningham, Joe Greenwood, Ricky Leutele, Jack Cogger, Josh Jones, Luke Yates, Olly Ashall-Bott

Losses:

Paul Clough, Dom Young, Adam Walne, Reiss Butterworth, Jordan Turner, Suaia Matagi, Akuila Uate, Tom Holmes

Last Season:

7th in Super League

5th Round of Challenge Cup

My take:

There's been a big change at the Giants over the offseason. But it’s the sort of change that is bringing hope rather than fear. Let's start with the biggest change, Ian Watson. We know already he's a top coach. He seems to have a clarity of message that gets anyone under his charge playing the right way, seeing the right things, making the right choices. Greg Brown coming in with Watson could be huge too, he just seems to have a way of getting players injury free and on the pitch more than not. There's been quite a bit of change in playing personnel too - 8 out, 8 in. But, looking across the changes, they've got stronger not weaker, and have good depth in most positions. Ricky Leutele was a shining light through the dark clouds that followed Toronto's ill-fated Super League spell. He's an upgrade. They've gone form having a good back row, to a stellar back row. Adam O'Brien has real like-for-like cover with James Cunningham coming in. They also have a little more depth in the front row than first appears, depending on what sort of role a couple of the younger players can play. One thing that shouldn't change too much is the spine, depending on how they choose to use Jack Cogger. Aidan Sezer is the clear driving force for this team, if he embraces Watson's game plan like the other overseas halves then he'll be a Man of Steel contender again. The squad has some youth too, most of it with a bit of top level experience already. Jake Wardle and Darnell McIntosh need to take that next step now from being highly skilled talents to consistent performers at both ends of the pitch. They have the ability, next is to show that consistently through games and from game to game.

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Gains:

Josh Reynolds

Losses:

Ratu Naulogo, Albert Kelly, Liam Harris, Gareth Ellis, Lewis Bienek, Josh Jones 

Last Season:

6th in Super League

Quarter final in Challenge Cup

My take:

Can Brett Hodgson have the same sort of impact in his first year coaching uin Super League as his first year playing in Super League, where he led his side to a cup final appearance and won Man of Steel? Hull will be hoping that he can do it largely with a side that was brought in for the previous head coach, as there's not been much transfer activity in west Hull. Josh Reynolds has come in to replace Albert Kelly. I'm not sure if Josh Reynolds is the man to push a team over that last false summit to reach the peak. But, he's combative and crafty, and may bring a fight to the side that sometimes they've seemed to lack. Half back is a key area where the side lacks depth. If anything happens to the starters, with Jamie Shaul out and Jake Connor featuring at full back, young Ben McNamara is the only back-up they have. You have to think he'll get more chance to show his talents this year. Connor is the key man though, and full back is the right spot for him, as I've said before. He can be the real strike weapon for Hull now that he will have freedom to find the most threatening positions in attack. If he can keep his concentration and discipline defensively he could be a dark horse for Man of Steel, and he has a great example of an all around full back to learn from. Jack Brown is a young player who has been elevated within the squad this year. He made a big impact on debut back in 2019 but under half the games in 2020. He'll be looking to have more game time in 2021 and could he be the player to fill gap left by the re-retired Gareth Ellis. 

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Gains:

Albert Vete, Ryan Hall, Korbin Sims, Brad Takairangi, Luis Johnson, Muizz Mustapha

Losses:

Mitch Garbutt, Jamie Ellis, Ryan Brierley, Matty Gee, Nathaniel Peteru, Dan Murray, Will Oakes, Harvey Livett, Robbie Mulhern, Weller Hauraki, Nick Rawsthorne

Last Season:

11th in Super League

Quarter finals of Challenge Cup

My take:

The Robins have a lot of loose forwards and a lot of centres in this side. Just like last year, I'm not sure they have any Super League half backs. Fitting a coherent 13 together seems like a task for Tony Smith, although we've seen him set up his Hull KR teams to do things differently to the better resourced teams in the past couple of years, so maybe he has something up his sleeve. There's no doubt that they have some quality and try scoring potential, if Ben Crooks can pick up where he started 2020 and Ryan Hall can pick up where he left off in 2015. The key player is Adam Quinlan, he offers a real threat when fit - or if fit, going off recent track record. If Matt Parcell can find his old form and new signings Albert Vete and Korbin Sims can offer what Rob Mulhern and Mitch Garbutt did back in 2019 then Hull KR might not be nailed on for the bottom four. But it feels like a lot of ifs with this side, a side that has big strides to make if they want to be competing for playoffs and silverware. This is a more youthful Hull KR than before Smith arrived. The likes of Mikey Lewis, Matty Storton, Rowan Milnes, Will Tate and Will Dagger have all had chances to impress already under Smith. Will Tate looks a talent to me. Muizz Mustapha's cannonball go forward has made him stand out whenever I saw him play for Leeds Academy, it will be interesting to see how much of a part he plays in Smith's plans as a loanee, is he just cover or will he get the chance to make an impact. The squad size should cope with the rigours of a long season, it will need to be seen if Smith can get a consistent quality from them.

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Gains:

Zane Tetevano, King Vuniyayawa, Kyle Eastmond

Losses:

Adam Cuthbertson, Rhys Evans, Muizz Mustapha, Ava Seumanafagai, Stevie Ward

Last Season:

5th in Super League

Challenge Cup Winner

My take:

Leeds have named a big squad with a lot of youth on the back end, that they will likely need during this campaign. Injuries are a problem to start the year for Leeds. Robert Lui starts on the treatment table, Ash Handley is still on the recovery trail from his horror leg break and Jack Walker is out long-term. And, Luke Gale is starting the season under a bit of an injury doubt, and that is something Leeds could really do without, as they will go as far as he can take them. He feels like as important a player as any player for any side when you watched him play for Leeds in 2020, giving them all their direction. I can't see 2021 being too different. The signing of Kyle Eastmond provides a real wildcard excitement to this side that they hope will complement Gale's direction. We'll see exactly how Eastmond will get used by Leeds, where and how he'll play and what of his League instincts have been dulled by a decade in the other code. But it's a story that will be interesting to follow. New signing Zane Tetevano will be another interesting signing to follow, he's expected to make a big impact on the field and whilst we can never condone what he did to get himself in trouble off the field back in 2014, all appearances are he is a rehabilitated figure following the crimes of his past. I see him as the replacement for Cuthbertson in this squad, we'll see if he can have the same impact. I'm not sure if we can still talk about Mikolaj Oledzki as a young player as he's coming up to 100 senior career appearances, but at 22 he's going to need to become a leader of this pack, in a front row that does lack some depth, with even younger Tom Holroyd looking like an important part of the prop depth for 2021. Corey Hall and Liam Tindall are exciting young outside backs that got a chance in 2020 and I think will be ones to watch if they get more of a go this year, they're players I'm excited to see develop behind some top first choice outside backs in the squad.

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Gains:

Blake Wallace, Jamie Ellis, Matty Gee, Ryan Brierley, Nathaniel Peteru, Adam Sidlow, Joe Mellor, Matty Russell, Ben Flower, Craig Mullen, Lewis Tierney, James Bell, Tyrone McCarthy, Brendan Elliot

Losses:

Ben Reynolds, Sam Brooks, Martyn Ridyard, Liam Forsyth, Callum Field, Ryan Ince, Danny Addy, Gregg McNally

Last Season:

Championship

5th Round of Challenge Cup

My take:

Leigh have the oldest and smallest squad heading to the season start line. And they've had the most turnover compared to 2020. A 2020 where they barely played a game. I can't help but feel rookie Super League head coach John Duffy has his work cut out for him. If the size of the squad wasn't worry enough, the make-up of it is largely a mix of the Toronto side that were bottom last year before lockdown and the Hull KR side that were bottom last year after lockdown. In fairness, they have clearly upgraded their Championship squad to be one with seasoned Super League players. Ryan Brierley's latest return to Leigh could see him be the key man. Brendan Elliot's arrival from Manly, a real boost to the squad ahead of the season, should free Brierley up to play in his preferred half back spot rather than at the back. Brierley, Joe Mellor and Blake Wallace at least have a shared history of being at the Wolfpack together in the past. And Duffy has created a bit of a Scotland connection too with his signings, bringing in four Scotland World Cup hopefuls to add to the two Scots retained from last year. Duffy himself is a former Scotland international player and coach who'll be keen I'm sure to help the Bravehearts in this World Cup year. One area of the squad they aren't thin, which is unlike a few of the sides, is prop forward, where they have some experience and depth. They don't have much depth elsewhere though unfortunately, and strike on the wings is an area of concern - 3 tries from 10 Super League games in 2020 for their two first choice wingers, who happen to be their only genuine wingers in the squad. I have to think that Derek Beaumont will have to dig into his pockets and find some singings during the season to bolster the outside backs if this side are going to consistently put up enough points to pick up the amount of wins that can keep them safe in Super League.

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Gains:

Morgan Escare, Joe Burgess, Sam Luckley, Matty Costello, Harvey Livett, Jack Wells, Danny Addy, Elijah Taylor, Darcy Lussick

Losses:

Mark Flanagan, Luis Roberts, Kris Welham, Joey Lussick, Connor Jones, Niall Evalds, Gil Dudson, Luke Yates, Tyrone McCarthy, Ed Chamberlain

Last Season:

9th in Super League

Runner-up in Challenge Cup

My take:

There has been a lot of change at Salford and I'm not confident that they've got better with that change. Major finalists in back to back years, but 9th in 2020 gives a more balanced reflection of their overall standing than the narrow cup final defeat. The obvious things to say is Richard Marshall has a tough act to follow as head coach. But I do think he's ready for this chance. He's done his time at the Championship level and he's had a successful stint as a Super League assistant under some strong coaches, so he's ready for a top job like this. Morgan Escare can be exhilarating on his day, but Niall Evalds is one of Salford's best players of the Super League era, so that's a slight downgrade, and I'd think about running with Dan Sarginson as my Salford full back. Joe Burgess would have been an upgrade for the squad, but injury will see him miss most or all of the year very sadly. Elijah Taylor and Darcy Lussick should be solid replacements for Mark Flanagan and Gil Dudson. But I'm not convinced they've replaced Luke Yates, who gave them so much effort and energy in defence last year, and I'm convinced that they haven't replaced Joey Lussick, who was arguably the most consistent Salford player over the last two seasons. In fact, their only depth at hooker behind Andy Ackers looks to be untested youngster Connor Aspey. Don't be surprised if utility signing Danny Addy spells Ackers quite a bit this year. My Salford key man is Lee Mossop. A real leader at Salford over the past few seasons and with quite a bit of change around him in the pack, his presence could be key to the team cohesion. Tui Lolohea and Kev Brown will create chances. Krisnan Inu, Kallum Watkins, Ken Sio and Rhys Williams should have enough strike to finish plenty of them. And if those outside backs aren't doing it, Matty Costello is a talented youngster I'm excited to see get a chance. I hope he can maintain the development path he was on when coming through at St Helens. I'm not sure Salford will have a successful campaign, but I'm fairly sure they will be one of the best sides to watch as a neutral this year.

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Gains:

Joel Thompson, Agnatius Paasi, Sione Mata'utia, Dan Norman

Losses:

Zeb Taia, James Graham, Callam Hazzard, Joseph Paulo, Dom Peyroux, Jack Ashworth, Matty Costello

Last Season:

Super League Winner (2nd in regular season)

Quarter final of Challenge Cup

My take:

Back to back Grand Final winners St Helens still have a stellar first team squad, with Zeb Taia and James Graham their only notable losses from that best match day 17, with their replacements being drawn in from the NRL with the vastly experienced Joel Thompson and the occasionally explosive Agnatius Paasi, so Saints will hope there's not much drop off. Matty Lees is a player who probably has to take the next step as well to help fill the legacy left by Graham, and obviously Luke Thompson who departed earlier in 2020. A full injury free season for him, with him growing in maturity, he will become a key figure in the side. Lachlan Coote is the key man though for St Helens. That showed with their stumbling start to 2020 when he was the only key piece really missing. Their spine is strong and has great continuity and cohesion, which means the players tend to take Man of Steel points off each other, but I'd have Coote as St Helens' leading contender for that award. Outside the first choice, St Helens' depth almost all comes from youth. Jack Welsby headlines that group after his Grand Final heroics and ability to cover in all the back positions as he's developing his game. Lewis Dodd, Josh Simm and Jake Wingfield also all impressed in limited first team showings in 2020. They will be needed in another crammed in Super League season, and the lack of experience in their squad depth is probably the only concern worth having over St Helens in 2021 as they go for a three-peat.

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Gains:

Mason Lino

Losses:

Danny Brough, Danny Kirmond, Ryan Atkins, Craig Kopczak, Tony Gigot, Romain Navarette, Ben Jones-Bishop, Titus Gwaze

Last Season:

10th in Super League

6th Round of Challenge Cup

My take:

Despite losing eight players and only bringing in one, Wakefield actually have one of the largest squads named at the 2021 starting line. Quite a bit of that is relatively unproven youth, but we've seen flashes from players like Jack Croft, Connor Bailey and Harry Bowes to make us think there is some talent in this Wakefield youth. James Batchelor is a player who it feels like has been around for ages and he's coming up to 50 Super League games now but he's still young at 22. With Danny Kirmond moved on, this should be a season for Batchelor to progress and cement himself as a regular performer at this level. Wakefield have some depth this year, I'm unsure how much real quality they have outside of the centres and of course Tom Johnstone. We know Jacob Miller and Ryan Hampshire are erratic talents, they can do great stuff but they don't make great sides around them. I really don't know enough about Mason Lino to say if he is the player to bring control and consistency to the half back partnership. In six seasons he's only played 34 times in the NRL, so it doesn't scream missing piece of the puzzle. Although, he's a Samoa international and I certainly won't be writing him off before we see him. 

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Gains:

Greg Inglis, Rob Butler, Rob Mulhern

Losses:

Ben Murdoch-Masila, Anthony Gelling, Luis Johnson, Dec Patton, Leilani Latu

Last Season:

3rd in Super League

Semi final of Challenge Cup

My take:

The Warrington squad has a very strong top 20 or so players. The rest is padded out by youth, talented youth, albeit not truly proven at this level. Barring a serious injury run in any one position though, they have quality cover if not serious depth. A couple of signings that really impress me are Rob Butler and Rob Mulhern, because what they bring is an element of succession planning for 33 year old Chris Hill and 32 year old Mike Cooper, but they also bring an ability to contribute now as well. Although they don't really have a traditional ball handling loose forward, they have a really strong group of middle forwards at Wire this year. They maybe don't have one key man, although I fancy Daryl Clark as a man of steel contender, but the real key for Wire to have trophy success this year is if Blake Austin and Gareth Widdop can get an understanding to their combination, because they struggled to do that all last year and it meant their attack wasn't as fearsome as their local rivals that finished above them. And the headline signing is of course Greg Inglis. It is fair and reasonable ot question if his body can take the rigours of a full Super League season. You suspect he will have games where he is rested, and his best for Wire won't match his best for Australia or Queensland from years gone by. In Rugby League terms though he is still a huge signing, albeit one that barely causes a flicker amongst the wider world of sports fans. He can surely bring something to this side with what he has seen and achieved through his career. Super League is the better for having him and it will surely be just a one season thing. I don't know that he can be the difference to make this Warrington's year, but it would be a remarkable swansong for him. The last thing to touch on with Wire is the strange certain uncertainty over the head coach position. Everyone knows that it will be Steve Price's last year. But will that bring added pressure, added uncertainty, added distraction - should there be a bad run of results, will the board think to act sooner, will the players fight for it the same way, whether or not the narrative is nonsense, it will be a constant one whenever Wire lose a couple of games back-to-back.

__________________________________________________________________________________

Gains:

John Bateman, Jai Field

Losses:

Sean O'Loughlin, Ben Flower, Joe Burgess, Joe Greenwood, Jack Wells, Jake Shorrocks, Chris Hankinson, George Burgess

Last Season:

1st in Super League, Grand Final runner-up

Semi final of Challenge Cup

My take:

Wigan don't have the same sort of experienced champion depth in 2021, what with losing some real winning experience form their squad. The loss of 2020 Sean O'Loughlin may not be felt as acutely as if it had been Lockers of a few years earlier, but it's still a hole to fill, in leadership, experience and quality. John Batemen though is quite some replacement, even if not in the exact same playing role. Here's a player that genuinely is one of the best players in the world game. So it's huge for Wigan to have brought him back. He is the key man because he makes himself the key man in every game he plays, through his will, determination and competitiveness. Something thing Wigan have in abundance this year is options in the spine, with the retention of Bevan French and Jackson Hastings, the deferred retirement of Tommy Leuluai and the signing of Jai Field, who to be fair we don't know for sure how he'll go, plus the very talented young Harry Smith. Now, getting the mix right and creating consistent link ups whilst keeping everyone satisfied is a big challenge for Adrian Lam, so we will have to see if he gets it right. That said, he got it right in 2020 with the big call of putting French at fullback probably being a large part of the reason he earned coach of the year. Wigan have a group of relatively game hardened and very talented young forwards, with 2019 breakout Morgan Smithies and 2020 breakout Ethan Havard leading that group. Wigan probably would like another experienced prop in the mix, but I don't worry too much about their pack depth. This is despite Wigan being another top club that fills out their squad depth with youth - they have the youngest named squad for 2021. Looking at concerns, wing and centre jump out as the area Wigan lack proven depth, after years of trying to fit four top wingers into two wing spots. Yes Jake Bibby offers good cover, but he'll need to start things off with Liam Marshall still on the way back from serious injury. After that, there isn't really any cover, so Sam Halsall and Umyla Hanley will need to become Super League players rather than just Super League prospects this year.

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Thanks for reading. Do make sure you follow us on Twitter & Facebook and look out for our shows.

Mark

SLP

2019 Super League Season Preview Show

Our Super League Season Preview show is now out! All four main hosts joined forces for a team-by-team run-through YOUR views, squad ins & outs and our predictions for 2019.

Listen to the show on iTunes here: SLP on iTunes
If you're not an Apple user, get the show here: SLP on Spreaker
You can also find us on YouTube, or search for us on whatever podcatcher app you use.

SLP Episode 205 is sponsored by Little Warden!
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This week's show is a team-by-team preview of the 2019 Super League Season. We go through all the views we had from fans of the sides, talk through the ins & outs at each side and say where we think each team will finish in the table.
You can find your own favourite side at the following points of the episode:
002:30 Castleford Tigers
012:35 Catalans Dragons
020:50 Huddersfield Giants
031:00 Hull FC
041:40 Hull Kingston Rovers
050:25 Leeds Rhinos
058:35 London Broncos
067:55 Salford Red Devils
078:05 St Helens
087:55 Wakefield Trinity
097:50 Warrington Wolves
105:55 Wigan Warriors

You should also check out our 2019 Predictions Show too, here or here.

Thank you to everyone who supports SLP!
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You can also make a donation to support SLP if you prefer: paypal.me/superleaguepod
All donations are hugely appreciated, large or small. If you donate £20 or more you can pick from an SLP t-shirt (limited stock remaining) or an SLP beanie (order in progress).

1 to 17: Super League Squads Assessed

We now have all the 2018 Super League squad numbers announced, after Wigan and finally Castleford released theirs this week. So, to whet the appetite for our upcoming season preview show, in this week's blog I've decided to play a bit of a game to figure out how I feel each squad stacks up.

I listed every player in each squad numbered 1 to 17* and I've subjectively ranked them from 1 (best) to 12 (worst), then added up the scores to see who I think has the best squad in Super League.

*other than Hull KR, who don't have a number 2 and have retired the number 6 - so for them, I've just filled in the gaps with who from their squad made most sense.

My best 17
Before I go into the squads vs. squads rankings, I'm going to give you my top ranked player for each squad number 1 to 17.

With shirt numbers 1 to 13, I was obviously looking at players in terms of a particular position on the field too. For shirt numbers 14 to 17, you get a mix of players who play different positions, so it gets a bit tougher to value one over the others.

Here's my side:

1. Jake Mamo, Huddersfield Giants
2. Jermaine McGillvary, Huddersfield Giants
3. Kallum Watkins, Leeds Rhinos
4. Mark Percival, St Helens
5. Joe Burgess, Wigan Warriors
6. George Williams, Wigan Warriors
7. Luke Gale, Castleford Tigers
8. Alex Walmsley, St Helens
9. James Roby, St Helens
10. Grant Millington, Castleford Tigers
11. Ben Currie, Warrington Wolves
12. Liam Farrell, Wigan Warriors
13. Sean O'Loughlin, Wigan Warriors
14. John Bateman, Wigan Warriors
15. Jesse Sene-Lafao, Castleford Tigers
16. Luke Thompson, St Helens
17. Ukuma Ta'ai, Huddersfield Giants

Have a go at the same exercise yourself then tell us yours in the comments! Just a reminder, this is based on squad numbers and not on positions (before people lose their minds over no Ben Barba, or the make up of that bench).

How the squads stack up
Based on my subjective rankings, I get the the following order from best to worst for each side's 1 to 17:

#1 - Castleford Tigers - Score: 74/204
After a really strong 2017, their first-choicers ranked consistently high for me across the squad and a decent looking 'bench' helped edge Cas into top spot from my rankings.

#2 - St Helens - Score: 75/204
Favoured by many to lift some trophies this year, Saints were just pipped by Cas. If Ben Barba hadn't been given the 'famous' 23 jersey they probably would have been ranked top, they have a quality front line squad.

#3 - Wigan Warriors - Score: 78/204
I was surprised how high Wigan ranked overall, with a number of the first 13 not ranking well, but there are still some real star names in that squad. Having a world class player like John Bateman in the 14 shirt contributed to their 'bench' pulling Wigan up my list.

#4 - Leeds Rhinos - Score: 89/204
They won the title last year, so Leeds should be expected to rank high and they do. If I had rolled this out to the top 25 squad numbers, they would have ranked even higher, with some quality depth to their squad this year.

#5 - Hull FC - Score: 90/204
Losing a couple of their best players hits Hull a little in the rankings. They still do have a quality squad with quite a few ranked by me as 2nd or 3rd at their number.

#6 - Warrington Wolves - Score: 92/204
I didn't rank any of Wire's first 13 below 7th for their own number, but only Ben Currie ranked 1st, and a patchy 'bench' cost the a higher spot in my list. If I went to the top 25 squad numbers they would have dipped further, with a few unproven players at the back end of their fairly small squad.

#7 - Huddersfield Giants - Score: 97/204
Their ranking has benefited somewhat from who other sides put in a couple of shirts. The strength of the squad numbers is primarily in the 1-3 shirts and on the 'bench'. They also have the odd favourable comparisons in later squad numbers outside the top 17, as well as some that I rank low.

#8 - Wakefield Trinity - Score: 120/204
This may speak to Wakefield being better than the sum of their parts, I didn't have it in my head they would rank this low. If I'd been comparing Tyler Randell to hookers and not loose forwards, it may have changed a little. They do have some favourable comparisons when I look at numbers 18-25 though.

#9 - Catalan Dragons - Score: 126/204
They have a few 12th places in my rankings, so despite some of their forwards and 'bench' men ranking well, they sit outside my top eight squads. Numbers 19-23 would stack up well against other squads though, so my expectations for their season won't be based on their top 17.

#10 - Salford Red Devils - Score: 150/204
This feels about right for this Salford side, with the club in a full scale reshuffle. Only three of their first 17 players earned a top half rank from me for their numbers.

#11 - Hull Kingston Rovers - Score: 167/204
Their squad numbers reflect the fact that a solid side got them promoted from the Championship, but it's mostly made up of the players who got them relegated or players who've yet to prove it at Super League level. Without Danny McGuire, they probably would have sat last in my rankings.

#12 - Widnes Vikings - Score: 168/204
My rankings for Widnes' players reflect that they were a poor side in 2017 and haven't done a great deal of strengthening in 2018. If I was comparing teams' squad numbers 30+, with Aaron Heremaia and the Albert brothers down their list, that's where Widnes would rank better with their big squad.

I even surprised myself with a few of these rankings, so maybe you'll surprise yourself too. Share your rankings with us in the comments. If you end up with a team scoring anything close to 17/204 or 204/204 then give yourself a long look in the mirror!

----------------------------------------------------------------

Just to finish, I'll touch on one of the more notable news stories of the week with three big name big men getting cut adrift from the Wolfpack.

I'm not sure quite what went on in Portugal for Ryan Bailey, Fui Fui MoiMoi and Dave Taylor all to have parted ways, with a pleasant goodbye press release I should note, from the Toronto Wolfpack. It's not a great sign at this stage of the preseason for such a big upheaval to take place, but the powers-that-be in the transatlantic venture can't be too concerned seeing as they've given the coach a new contract extension.

Maybe it does leave the Wolfpack a little thin of front-line front-rowers, but Toronto still have quality in their ranks. You would also expect that they have a little cash going spare now and cap space to use up on anyone who becomes available elsewhere. I'm not too worried about how this affects their ability to compete this year and the likely step up to Super League beyond that. They'll be okay.

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Hope you've enjoyed reading this week's blog. It's not long before we'll be back in your ears, as we plan to record our 2018 season preview and predictions show on 29 January. On that subject, make sure to make your predictions so you can be part of the show: https://goo.gl/forms/jZrrvCGFm2MrJxu42

Mark
SLP

2014 Super League Preview

If 2013 was extraordinary, 2014 should be exhilarating and tense in equal measure. With some talismanic players gone from some of the top clubs, a new threat to the traditional trophy winners on the scene and the spectre of relegation looming, there should be plenty to discuss in Super League this year.

We're in the midst of Super League's preseason so its time to preview what's to come in the next 10 months for the teams in the northern hemisphere's premier competition of the greatest game. 

This post features our headline predictions for the upcoming season, but you can look at our previews for each team by following these links (or picking from the sidebar):

Bradford - Castleford - Catalan - Huddersfield - Hull FC - Hull KR - Leeds - London - Salford - St Helens - Wakefield - Warrington - Widnes - Wigan

We also want to hear what you think so leave a comment with your predictions, and your thoughts on ours, or connect with us on Twitter and Facebook.

Grand Final Winners:
Mark - Warrington - My thinking is one of these years just has to be their year. They are *gritted teeth* well coached, have plenty of experience, but also got younger and faster in the off season. In Matty Russell, Richie Myler and Stefan Ratchford they have a fast, talented and young axis that should contribute lots of scoring. This behind the likes of Hill, Asotasi and Westwood who should do damage up front and Joel Monaghan should still be effective out wide. I just think they have a complete package and a very strong motivation to push it all for Old Trafford glory, with the mental strength to do so against the likely pressure of failing again.

Tom - Huddersfield - The wheels came off last year but looking at this group I find it hard to look beyond the Giants for the overall crown this year. Barring all but the most serous of injury crises or some kind of coaching implosion, it's the Giants all day for me. There may be better groups of forwards, halves and backs knocking about as units within other sides (mainly I'm thinking of Leeds' outside backs, but more on them later), but as a team the Giants are my pick for Grand Final glory come October. Their forwards get their jobs done with power and real aggression. Eorl Crabtree in particular causes so many problems for his opponents and sets a great platform for his halves to perform from. Danny Brough is the reigning Man of Steel and will be up there again this year, moving this powerful group round the park with all the aplomb he demonstrated last term. The squad is relatively settled in terms of comings and goings, but the addition of Jodie Broughton is a strong one which serves to improve the Giants further. Incidentally, Broughton is my pick for top try-scorer this year, yes, ahead of Charnley. Put simply, if any team does better than the Giants, they'll be champions.

Cup Winners:
Mark - Leeds - Same logic as the GF in a way, they've been to Wembley three times in the last four years and lost every time. In their distinguished careers, none of their veteran stalwarts have won a cup final (other than Peacock with Bradford) and you feel they will want it on their honours list before they retire. They have some great outside backs and a great goal kicker, with big game experience. Too many times they've been starting to get going by Wembley and not quite be there. They just have to time their run to be around cup games, not for September, and they'll crack it. I fancy Salford could make a run in the cup to be the beaten finalists - they have quality but not depth, so the one off nature of cup games could suit them.

Tom - Leeds - It hurts to say this as a Bull's fan, but I fancy Leeds for the Challenge Cup this year. On their day they can beat anyone and that suits them for knockout football. I think there are weaknesses in the forwards, and Sinfield/McGuirre won't go on forever (will they?!?!) but that back line is one of the most gifted I've seen. Ryan Hall was quiet last year but still bagged 15 try's. Kallum Watkins is a phenomenal athlete, probably the best player outside the NRL, whilst Tom Briscoe is another world class finisher. This all adds up to cup glory and a strong challenge come playoff time. I fancy one of the Hull sides to join the Rhinos at Wembley, although sadly for one half of the city, the end result will be the same as last year.

Man of Steel:
Mark - Stefan Ratchford - If I'm thinking Wire will take the LLS then it would make sense to take one of their players as MoS. Ratchford has to step up in place of Briers, and the media loved Briers, so he's bound to get plenty of attention. He has the ability and mentality to deal with the pressure and if he stays fit he will be the main man at the HJ.

Tom - Chris Hill - Not my first choice (Ratchford gets my vote too but I like a bit of intra-podcast rivalry), but Hill for me was our best performer after Sam Burgess at the World Cup. I like everything about this lads game and I think he's due a big year in an even bigger Warrington pack. He'll learn quickly from big money import Roy Asotasi and earn big raps all year helping set the platform for Ratchford and Myler. Halves are only as good as the forwards in front of them, and this kid is one of the best in the world. 

Listen to us discuss our predictions now!

2014 Preview - Hull Kingston Rovers

The Robins were the losing team to make the playoffs in 2013 and it showed once there. As they finished 8th last year, they would possibly be most likely to get replaced in the playoff shake up by the revolutionised Salford Red Devils. Improving defence and getting to grips with lost leadership will be key in preventing that from happening.

Doubts about financial backing have contrasted with a shiny new stand at Craven Park in a mixed off season. Player movement has been a little mixed too.

In has come some experienced NRL veterans in Kris Keating, Neville Costigan and Michael Weyman. Out have gone arguably their best three players of a year ago in Michael Dobson, Mickey Paea and Cory Paterson. Dobson in particular has been fundamental in the club's Super League era and it remains to be seen if Keating can do all he did in leading the team.

Lincoln Withers is the only other loss, whereas Ben Cockayne, Justin Poore (both in the Wakefield sales) and Jamie Langley are notable incomers, but none provide the genuine game breaking ability or speed that Rovers are lacking outside of Greg Eden.

Something they will be looking for is an improvement in defence. Rovers have shown they can score on teams but poor tackling has meant they also leak points - they were second worst in tackle success in 2013. Despite Bradford also missing lots of tackles, Langley is a hard working forward who won't let Rovers down, averaging about 25 successful tackles a game at a 94% success rate.

Weyman can certainly make some metres and bust through a few defensive efforts - he averaged 95 metres per game and 8.4 metres a carry in his 10 NRL games last year - but ultimately Rovers will probably need to stay healthy, find some pace and explosion and defend better than in the past to maintain a top 8 place this year.

League Leaders Odds: 66/1
Grand Final Odds: 50/1
Cup Odds: 35/1
(source: Oddschecker.com)

Mark's predictions:
League place - 9th
Key man - Greg Eden
One to watch - Keal Carlile

Tom's predictions:
League place - 7th
Key man - Kris Keating
One to watch - Justin Poore