In only the third 1895 Cup Final, we’re treated to a seismic affair which is not just about silverware but the wider narrative unfolding in the Betfred Championship.
For the second time this season, the league’s two best teams who have dreams of Super League do battle. A win for either side here would be a massive psychological blow to the other as they look to gain any kind of advantage over their star studded rivals.
Beyond that there is the small matter of a trophy up for grabs. The Rovers are looking to retain the trophy they won last season whilst Leigh are hoping to follow in the footsteps of Fev and Sheffield becoming the third side to lift the trophy.
Team News:
The Rovers have named a Super League calibre squad including the likes of new signings such as Johnathan Ford, Ryley Jacks, Mark Kheirallah and Joey Leilua. Brian McDermott who has cup final winning experience with Leeds has included a two-time winner of the Challenge Cup Adam Cuthbertson.
As for Leigh, they name a similarly strong squad including Blake Ferguson who could play only his second game for the club in a final. Krisnan Inu also features hoping to right the wrongs of his cup final defeat with Salford in 2020.
Match Preview – Key Battles:
Mark Kheirallah vs Caleb Aekins: Two outstanding fullbacks who could cause plenty of problems in Super League will look to give their side an attacking edge at the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium tomorrow. Either of these could very well find themselves picking up the Man of the Match.
Joey Leilua vs Ed Chamberlain: An established centre with buckets of experience takes on a real star of the future as Ed Chamberlain stirs up interest from top Super League clubs with his dangerous performances. However, to get the edge on the powerful and experienced Joey Leilua would take a very accomplished performance.
Ryley Jacks vs Joe Mellor: Ryley Jacks has taken nicely to Featherstone and with plenty of quality and experience behind him from his NRL days, he could boss things in London. Joe Mellor will have to be at his best to outfox him but has the big game experience to do so.
Where the game will be won and lost:
With two evenly matched teams full of stars, this game will likely be on a knife edge and decided by the aforementioned stars. The star players who stand up on the day and conjure up the moments of magic needed could lead their side to victory.
Score Prediction: Featherstone Rovers 22-20 Leigh Centurions
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