Warrington Wolves suffer huge blow

Another huge week in Super League is set to unfold as Leeds Rhinos host Hull KR in the battle for sixth, Wigan Warriors host rivals Warrington Wolves and Super League and World Champions take on league leaders Catalans Dragons in the three headline games this weekend.

On top of this, Wakefield Trinity, reinvigorated by their wins over Leeds, Salford and Wigan, go to Huddersfield Giants who stunned Catalans last week.

Meanwhile, Castleford Tigers need a win in the relegation battle and take on Hull FC on the back of their derby win. Leigh Leopards and Salford Red Devils meet in the last game of the week which is key for both side’s hopes as Leigh chase Catalans and Salford look to fend off Leeds and the two Hull clubs.

But as we head into the pivotal Round 19 of the Betfred Super it is hard not to be drawn to Wigan vs Warrington.

Always a huge fixture, it is a repeat of the 2013, 2016 and 2018 Grand Finals and this time with the teams in fourth and fifth it is a vital game in the context of both side’s seasons.

Let’s not forget the difference between fourth and fifth in the table. In many ways the difference is quite pronounced with the top four all guaranteed a home play-off game whilst fifth and sixth have to go about things away from home.

So it is a huge game and both sides have vital boosts going into the game. Wigan have Kaide Ellis back, after his red card against Warrington earlier this year, and Kai Pearce-Paul.

Meanwhile, Warrington could have George Williams, Sam Kasiano and Matty Nicholson back.

However, they have suffered a sizeable blow with star Matty Ashton not named in the 21 man squad after his two amazing tries last week.

Josh Thewlis is again absent after missing last week. This could mean Matty Russell and centre Connor Wrench start on the wings.

Given Wigan’s threat on the flanks with Liam Marshall and Abbas Miski this could be a huge problem for the Wolves and Daryl Powell.

The game takes place at 8pm on Friday on Sky Sports.