Two teams that have traded form recently go toe to toe in a game that could be vital in determining the trajectory both sides head in the second half of the campaign.
What do I mean by traded form? Well Hull KR were putting together a formidable run and were pushing for the top four but injuries and the curveball thrown by Tony Smith that he would be leaving the club at the end of the year has seen them drop off including in a Challenge Cup semi-final where an opportunity to play in a major final passed them by.
As for Salford, a string of good performances have begun yielding results such as against Leeds and Castleford recently. Now well away from danger they’re breathing down Hull KR’s necks and are chasing a spot in the top six.
Team News
After missing the defeat to Catalans, Matt Parcell is back in the mix for this game as is Korbin Sims who also didn’t feature against the Dragons. There is a major boost as well in the return of Mikey Lewis from injury to give the Robins a more natural halfback pairing.
Salford are without Greg Burke, Shane Wright and James Greenwood. However, with Tyler Dupree, Kallum Watkins and Danny Addy filling in those positions well, it’s unlikely this will be any problem for Paul Rowley’s side. In fact, they, alongside King Vuniyayawa, are the only absentees from Salford’s first 17 squad numbers as they again name a very strong squad.
Match Preview – Key Battles:
Lachlan Coote vs Ryan Brierley: Two very differing fullbacks tussle in one of the vital battlefronts which could help decide this game between two sides on the periphery of the play-off picture. Coote has bags of experience and is a vital leader especially in organising the attack. As for Ryan Brierley, he’s always been an attacking threat and an almost guaranteed source of points.
Rowan Milnes vs Brodie Croft: Recently we’ve seen the best of Brodie Croft especially in his ability to carve open defences. He’s someone the Robins will have to shut down effectively. However, despite the injuries they have in their spine, Hull KR still have the always dangerous Rowan Milnes who could come up with some key plays. Hopefully backed up by Mikey Lewis, both should shine here.
Elliot Minchella vs Elijah Taylor: These two are perhaps the most underrated loose-forwards in the competition. Hard working and skilful, they have every weapon in their arsenal needed to get on top of the opposition. They could determine who wins the forward battle.
Where the game will be won and lost:
I’d fancy this game to be decided by what both teams are able to do with ball in hand. Neither side look to tick off the conventional markers of winning a game and instead look to catch opponents out with enterprising attacks. However, Hull KR’s once potent offence has been blunted recently whilst Salford’s is beginning to click. This could be the difference between winning and losing.
Score Prediction: Hull KR 14-24 Salford Red Devils