It’s the Challenge Cup quarter-finals this weekend, meaning it’s one step closer to Wembley for four sides. But, how do we expect the fixtures to go?
Catalans v Warrington
The Dragons beat Wakefield 26-6 in the last round to reach this stage and have since continued their decent run of form, winning two of their last three. The Wolves, meanwhile, have gone unbeaten in their last five, including a 32-8 victory over Championship side Swinton Lions in the Challenge Cup third round. There’s two changes for Catalans, as Benjamin Jullien and youngster Mathieu Cozza are added to the squad. They replace Paul Seguier, who picked up an injury last week, and Jordan Dezaria, who is suspended. Warrington’s Tom Lineham returns from suspension in place of Matty Ashton, who sustained an ankle injury last week. It’s an interesting one this, but the Wolves are really in form and should have too much for the French side.
Warrington by 12
St Helens v Huddersfield
Saints have had a flawless start to 2021, winning all six of their opening games in all competitions, including an 18-10 victory over the Giants last month. Ian Watson’s side should be full of confidence, though, having claimed their first Super League win in nail-biting fashion against Leeds last week, with the game finishing 14-13 in Huddersfield’s favour. Morgan Knowles could be set for his first appearance of the season after recovering from thumb surgery. He replaces youngster Jake Wingfield, who picked up a shoulder knock last week. Joel Thompson also returns from a foot problem in place of James Bentley, who broke his leg in the win over Leigh. The Giants make one change, with young forward Owen Trout replacing Oliver Russell. Huddersfield have notoriously been St Helens’ bogey team over the years and, buoyed by a superb win over Leeds, could well spring a surprise here as massive underdogs.
Huddersfield by 2
Hull FC v Wigan
All eyes will be on this fixture at the weekend following last week’s troubles between the same teams. Wigan came out 16-14 winners that day to continue their unbeaten start to 2021, whilst it was Hull’s first loss of the season. Brett Hodgson is forced into three changes with Jake Connor and Brad Fash suspended, and Scott Taylor having picked up a foot injury. On the plus side, Josh Reynolds and Manu Ma’u are back in contention after recovering from respective hamstring and calf problems, while young fullback Connor Wynne is recalled from a loan spell at York. There’s just one change for the Warriors, as Dom Manfredi returns from a thumb injury in place of Tony Clubb, who serves the first game of his eight-match suspension. With Reynolds back in the side, he could prove the difference for Hull in their bid to get to Wembley.
Hull by 4
Castleford v Salford
Another two sides that played each other last week, Castleford were narrow victors over Salford which handed the Tigers their fifth win from six games. The Red Devils, meanwhile, have won just twice all year. James Clare is in contention for the first time this season as one of three changes made by Daryl Powell. He is joined in the squad by Daniel Smith and Jordan Turner, with Cheyse Blair, Greg Eden (hamstring) and Sam Hall dropping out. There’s four changes for the Red Devils, with Dan Sarginson, Elijah Taylor, Ryan Lannon and Dec Patton all returning from injury. They replace Andy Ackers (ankle), Krisnan Inu, Morgan Escare and Josh Johnson. Castleford won by ten points last time out and it could be the same margin yet again.
Castleford by 10
