Betfred Championship Round 4: Score predictions, kick-off times and TV coverage

The chaos caused by storm Eunice has ensured that we won’t get the usual array of fantastic rugby league the Betfred Championship serves up weekly.

Two matches already off but the other ten clubs are set to weather any ‘hurricane’ thrown at them in round four of the Betfred Championship with some exciting fixtures still waiting for us.

But who will be the winners and losers of Round Four?

Newcastle Thunder vs Whitehaven RLFC

Two ‘expansion’ teams battle as Newcastle Thunder host Whitehaven RLFC. Newcastle boast a strong squad, having Josh Woods, Josh Eaves and Sam Hallas available as ‘pivots’ plus Mitch Clark, Alex Foster and Ted Chapelhow in the pack to cause plenty of problems. Whitehaven are off to a slow start but did pick up a good win down in London last week. They have plenty of experience in their squad, such as Dion Aiye, Karl Dixon and Nikau Williams and could prove to be worthy opponents, but it may just be beyond them on this occasion despite the fact the Thunder haven’t set the world on fire in the first three games.

Kick-off time: 15:00 Saturday
Prediction: Newcastle Thunder 28-16 Whitehaven RLFC

Featherstone Rovers vs London Broncos

Red hot promotion favourites Featherstone Rovers host former Super League side London Broncos. Fev possess a strong squad, boosted by the return of Joey Leilua, not to mention they have all their playmakers available and being back at home should give them all the confidence in the world to pick up yet another win. The Broncos, still without a victory, will be under the cosh from the word go. Still in a heavy period of transition and now set for a night which could prove to be their longest of the season.

Kick-off time: 17:30 Saturday
Prediction: Featherstone Rovers 48-6 London Broncos

Workington Town vs Halifax Panthers

Now a trip to the North West as Workington Town play Halifax Panthers. It has been a struggle for Workington since their promotion and it doesn’t look any easier for them here. Being at home could lend them a hand but against a determined Halifax side could see them struggle. Fax have the likes of Cory Aston, Joe Keyes and Brandon Moore available as attacking options and though just missing out last week, will want to re-write their fortunes and truly kick-start their season in style here after just one win from the opening three.

Kick-off time: 14:00 Sunday
Prediction: Workington Town 12-26 Halifax Panthers

York City Knights vs Leigh Centurions

An interesting game as potential dark horses York City Knights square off against three-time former Super League side Leigh Centurions. The Knights could really make a go of this one, with Liam Harris back in the side to partner Jamie Ellis at half-back plus a strong forward pack to choose from as well. The Centurions though will have plenty of fight in them, with a full back line available plus plenty of confidence no doubt restored after last week’s win over Bradford. Considering the experience in their side they could just edge it.

Kick-off time: 15:00 Sunday
Prediction: York City Knights 18-24 Leigh Centurions

Dewsbury Rams vs Widnes Vikings

A televised game that may subvert many expectations as Dewsbury Rams host Widnes Vikings in front of Premier Sports. The Rams have started slow but edged Sheffield last week so it may give them a slight boost heading into this one. However, Widnes should be favourites they’re top of the league after all, and will have no intention of letting that go anytime soon. Going off their halfbacks, they should get the better of the Rams. They’re also the best attacking team in the league as it stands and it should show on the night.

Kick-off time and TV coverage: 19:45 Monday on Premier Sports
Prediction: Dewsbury Rams 16-30 Widnes Vikings

Batley Bulldogs P-P Sheffield Eagles

Bradford Bulls P-P Barrow Raiders