Warrington Wolves vs Salford Red Devils: Team news, match preview and score prediction

Few would have expected Warrington to be one spot beneath Salford at this stage in the season, but that is the case.

The Red Devils are well in the hunt for play-off rugby and after a massive win over Wakefield last week underlined their ability. They could very well down Warrington here and further cement their play-off chances and keep Warrington beneath them.

As for the Wolves, eyes are already turning to 2023 but their season could be kept alive with a win here.

Team News

There could be three debuts for Warrington with new arrivals Jake Wardle and Matty Nicholson in the squad alongside another potential debut in Greg Minikin who has gotten over injuries. That’s a boost with Matty Ashton and Kyle Amor injured. Riley Dean is back from his loan at Newcastle.

Salford have named a 19-man squad but do have their first 10 squad numbers available but not skipper Elijah Taylor through suspension. There’s also no Danny Addy and Morgan Escare.

Match Preview – Key Battles:

Gareth Widdop vs Ryan Brierley: Two fullbacks who have experience as playmakers do battle here. Gareth Widdop has plenty of quality even if he has struggled for form in 2022. He could still be the difference likewise Ryan Brierley could also be due to try scoring ability.

George Williams vs Brodie Croft: A pair of former NRL halfbacks who have had different fortunes at their clubs in 2022. However, when they met in the recent international it showed just how good they both can be as they both stood out. It should again be an interesting battle between two halves who can take on the line.

Daryl Clark vs Andy Ackers: Andy Ackers is one of the most underrated nines in the league and he can show his quality here against a top hooker in Daryl Clark. Clark will look to generate a quick ruck to enable his running game.

Where the game will be won and lost:

Salford have one of the best attacking shapes in the league and when they click – as they did against Wakefield – they really click and be almost unstoppable in attack. The Wolves will have to limit their chances and try and dominate the middle of the field. In the end though, last week proved the Wolves are still struggling in attack and that could be the difference.

Score Prediction: Warrington Wolves 10-26 Salford Red Devils