Betfred Championship Round Three Preview

Yorkshire are currently dominating the Betfred Championship, with five clubs sat just behind promotion favourites Toulouse Olympique at the top. But, just how will this weekend’s games go?

London Broncos Vs Oldham RLFC

First up sees two former Super League clubs go toe-to-toe in London Broncos and Oldham. London have somewhat had a difficult start, crashing out of the Challenge Cup before two league defeats have left them bottom of the league. Could all that change here?! Well they are still a full-time team, under Danny Ward, and should be favourites for this one. Oldham though have played some very good rugby, but were put in their place last week at Batley and a long trip down south will not do them any more favours.

Prediction: London Broncos 34-12 Oldham RLFC

Batley Bulldogs Vs Widnes Vikings

An exciting game as the ever-improving Batley Bulldogs take on an out-of-sorts Widnes Vikings. The Bulldogs have produced some impressive rugby, especially in attack. Troubling Featherstone twice before thumping Oldham is a clear message of their capability. Widnes are still in transition under Simon Finnigan and this could be too much of a task to overcome an in-form and spirited Batley side. 

Prediction: Batley Bulldogs 32-18 Widnes Vikings

Swinton Lions Vs York City Knights

Two teams with literally everything to play for as Swinton Lions host York City Knights – both are winless and desperate to get off the mark! Swinton can be a tricky team, especially in attack, something which coach Stuart Littler has worked well into them. However, York still boast an impressive squad. Transition may be an issue, but they have to click sometime and there is no reason why it can’t start here.

Prediction: Swinton Lions 12-26 York City Knights

Featherstone Rovers Vs Whitehaven RLFC

Title contenders Featherstone Rovers host Cumbrian club Whitehaven at the Millennium stadium. ‘Fev’, excluding their Cup exit to Hull FC, are unbeaten and are expectedly favourites here, considering the Super League and NRL experience they have on offer. Whitehaven, facing a long trip over and all being part-time, are vast underdogs here and though they may trouble the hosts in large periods, will be overwhelmed. 

Prediction: Featherstone Rovers 46-12 Whitehaven RLFC

Halifax Panthers Vs Toulouse Olympique

Two sides who once battled it out for the Super 8s Qualifiers as Halifax host Toulouse. The Panthers possess some skilful players and, with home advantage, could be tricky opposition for the visitors. However, Toulouse, full-time and of course the favourites for promotion, should get the job done here, especially with all the Super League and NRL experience they have.

Prediction: Halifax Panthers 12-28 Toulouse Olympique

Newcastle Thunder Vs Sheffield Eagles

Two “dark horses” as Newcastle Thunder go against Sheffield Eagles. Thunder have been tipped to trouble several clubs this season, though a defeat to Whitehaven may have halted those plans. Sheffield were tipped to struggle but currently sit second in the league, playing some impressive rugby, with wins over Bradford and York. Despite having to travel, Sheffield should have more confidence in their ranks, with more than enough capability to overcome Newcastle.

Prediction: Newcastle Thunder 22-30 Sheffield Eagles

Bradford Bulls Vs Dewsbury Rams

Who really is the home side here?! Bradford Bulls or Dewsbury Rams at the Tetley’s stadium? The Bulls bounced back last week with a win against rivals Halifax, but Dewsbury recorded a shock win at Widnes. This is very difficult to call as both teams have Super League experience and will be full of confidence as it stands.Bradford may just edge it.

Prediction: Bradford Bulls 32-26 Dewsbury Rams