Keith Senior’s Predictions: Super League, Championship and League 1 Finals

Wigan Warriors vs Salford Red Devils (Friday 7.45pm)

So, they meet again! Wigan were blown away by St Helens last Friday and they must now defeat Salford for the second time in this playoff series to make it to Old Trafford. The Red Devils only lost the last meeting by six points and will have plenty of confidence having comprehensively seen off Castleford. I’m predicting a tense, tight and low-scoring affair, with the emphasis on George Williams and Jackson Hastings to produce the goods for their teams. There won’t be much in it, but with their superior experience in these games I feel Wigan will edge it and end the Salford fairytale.

Keith says: Wigan by 4

Toronto Wolfpack vs Featherstone Rovers (Saturday 7.30pm)

It’s déjà vu for Toronto as they come into a home Grand Final as heavy favourites for the second year running. Last year London stunned everyone by snatching a Super League spot away from them and now Featherstone will aim to do the same. Ryan Carr has done a terrific job at Rovers and their playoff run has been exceptional, especially the win at Toulouse last week. But I feel going to a Toronto side who have lost only one game all season could be one step too far, especially when they have players like Ricky Leutele in their ranks. Brian McDermott is a big game coach so I fancy the Wolfpack will right the wrongs of last year and secure promotion to Super League.

Keith says: Toronto by 14

Oldham vs Newcastle Thunder (Sunday 3pm)

A place in the Championship is on the line this Sunday and I’m really looking forward to Oldham against Newcastle. This should be a cracking game between two evenly matched teams. Oldham finished just one point ahead of Thunder in the table and the aggregate score between the teams this season is 50-48, with Newcastle winning the home fixture 28-22 before Oldham got revenge with a 28-20 success in August. It really is the toss of a coin and both teams deserve a shot at the Championship, but if pushed I just fancy the team from the North East to prevail.

Keith says: Newcastle by 4