The Championship returns today as the race for Super League starts.
It is set to be one of the most competitive and exciting Championship seasons ever with no standout favourites but a number of exciting squads capable of earning promotion.
Here’s everything you need to know about Round One:
Barrow Raiders vs Toulouse Olympique
Kick-off: 4th Feb 15:00
TV: OurLeague App
Prediction: Barrow 10-26 Toulouse
One of the best teams in last year’s Championship Barrow Raiders host the side relegated to the Championship in 2022. Barrow will be a huge test for Toulouse and their limited squad depth could make it a tough trip but in the end Toulouse should have enough.
Bradford Bulls vs Whitehaven
Kick-off: 5th Feb 15:00
Prediction: Bradford 30-12 Whitehaven
The Bulls are chasing a record attendance and have a star studded squad for the new season and are seen as one of the favourites for promotion. At home they should have enough to beat Whitehaven.
Halifax Panthers vs Sheffield Eagles
Kick-off: 5th Feb 15:00
Prediction: Halifax 22-20 Sheffield
Sheffield have made some great signings for the new season and wills surely be in the play-off mix but away at Halifax who are hoping to break into the top two after consecutive third places finishes, they may come up short.
London Broncos vs Batley Bulldogs
Kick-off: 5th Feb 15:00
Prediction: London 10-16 Batley
It will be a tough journey down South for Batley to start the season after losing some key players over the winter. However, a top team and a top coach, they could just edge it.
Swinton Lions vs Newcastle Thunder
Kick-off: 5th Feb 15:00
Prediction: Swinton 14-18 Newcastle
The newly promoted Swinton Lions will hope to stun Newcastle to start the season. Having home advantage could help them but the Thunder could have just enough to win.
York RLFC vs Widnes Vikings
Kick-off: 5th Feb 15:00
Prediction: York 16-22 Widnes
Two teams who will be hoping to make the play-offs in 2023, Widnes Vikings’ exciting new signings like Super League winner Kyle Amor may just give them the edge today.
Keighley Cougars vs Featherstone Rovers
Kick-off: 6th Feb 19:45
TV: Viaplay
Prediction: Keighley 16-20 Featherstone
Having made some major signings, not least the acquisition of former Man of Steel and Castleford Tigers and Leeds Rhinos star Luke Gale, the Cougars could have enough to make it difficult for Championship favourites Featherstone but the Rovers have made some exciting signings themselves which could just be enough to get them the win.
