Super League Grand Final race hots up after Hull KR loss as new favourites confirmed

The race to make the Super League Grand Final has taken another twist following a shock defeat for Hull KR.

After watching Wigan Warriors dismantle Castleford Tigers on Friday night, Hull KR knew that they could still wrap the League Leaders Shield up with a win over Wakefield Trinity.

Instead, the Robins put in their worst performance of the Willie Peters’ era as they lost 28-12, having trailed 26-0 at the half, meaning the wait for a first-ever League Leaders Shield continues.

It’s still very likely that Hull KR will secure that piece of silverware as they host a Warrington Wolves side who proved hapless on Saturday, falling to their fourth consecutive defeat and accused by many fans and pundits of having given up.

Even with a defeat to Wire, second-place Wigan would have to close a points gap of 41 when they face Leeds, though Matt Peet’s side are more than capable of that.

More important than who wins the League Leaders Shield is how recent performances have effected for the race for the Super League Grand Final, with Hull KR no longer outright favourites for the first time in months.

Wigan Warriors now joint-favourites for Super League crown

Wigan’s impressive form of late has seen their odds slowly shorten week on week, whilst the wobbles from Hull KR have seen them drift in price.

That’s now meant we are at a point where Hull KR and Wigan Warriors are 11/8 joint-favourites to win the Grand Final, with the Robins the longest odds and Wigan the shortest they’ve been in months.

Regardless of who wins the League Leaders Shield, Hull KR and Wigan Warriors will have a bye round and a home semi-final, with both aspects being a huge advantage.

However, the chasing pack is strong and upsets could still be on the table. It’s Leeds Rhinos, who have beaten Hull KR twice this year, who are third favourites at 6/1.

In all likelihood, they will travel to St Helens and then to Craven Park if they’re to make it to Old Trafford.

Leigh Leopards, who look set to host either Wakefield Trinity or Hull FC and then possibly travel to Wigan, are priced at 10/1 to lift a first ever Super League Grand Final.

St Helens, who have now lost their last three games to play-off rivals, are made 16/1 chances with Wakefield (66/1) and Hull FC (100/1) the rank outsiders.

With experience and form in Wigan’s favour, it may well be that they move to outright favourites in the coming days and weeks as the play-off picture fully emerges.

Super League Grand Final winner odds

Wigan Warriors 11/8
Hull KR 11/8
Leeds Rhinos 6/1
Leigh Leopards 10/1
St Helens 16/1
Wakefield Trinity 66/1
Hull FC 100/1

All odds from Betfred and correct at the time of writing

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