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[Philippe Barrau]

SUPER LEAGUE XIV TEAM-BY-TEAM



Compiled by Ian Laybourn, PA Sport Rugby League Correspondent

BRADFORD BULLS:

Coach: Steve McNamara (since April 2006).

Captain: Paul Deacon.

Previous finishes: 3rd, 1st (champions), 5th, 1st (runners-up), 3rd, 1st (champions), 2nd (runners-up), 1st (champions), 2nd (runners-up), 3rd (champions), 4th, 3rd, 5th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Semi Tadulala 17; goals - Paul Deacon 82; points - Paul Deacon 177.

Biggest Super League win: 96-16 (v Salford, 2000).

Biggest Super League defeat: 66-4 (v St Helens, 2005).

Ground and capacity: Odsal, 26,019.

2008 average attendance: 10,287 (down 1,586).

Record Super League attendance: 24,020 (v Leeds 1999).

In: Greg Bird (Cronulla), Steve Menzies (Manly), Nick Scruton (Leeds), Rikki Sheriffe, Michael Worrincy (both Harlequins).

Out: Joe Vagana (retired), Iestyn Harris (Featherstone), James Evans, Chris Feather (both Castleford), Matt James (Halifax, on season-long loan), Simon Finnigan, Keal Carlile (both Huddersfield).

Player to watch: Greg Bird - the controversial stand-off or loose forward found himself in big demand in England after being cut adrift in Australia and the Bulls hope he can add the X factor to their team once he finally arrives.

Rising star: Jason Crookes - an 18-year-old centre who spent much of last season on loan at Oldham but has been groomed for Super League and could be ready to make the step up.

Odds to finish top: 10-1.

Prospects: The Bulls have never finished out of the top five and that is unlikely to change, though they remain title outsiders.

Prediction: 3rd.

CASTLEFORD TIGERS

Coach: Terry Matterson (since November 2005).

Captain: Ryan Hudson.

Previous finishes: 9th, 10th, 6th, 5th, 5th, 8th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 2nd in National League (champions), 11th (relegated), 1st in National League (champions), 12th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Luke Dorn 19; goals: Kirk Dixon 38; points - Joe Westerman 104.

Biggest Super League win: 74-16 (v Salford, 2002).

Biggest Super League defeat: 68-12 (v St Helens, 2008).

Ground and capacity: The Jungle (formerly Wheldon Road) 11,750.

2008 average attendance: 7,501 (up 2,464).

Record Super League attendance: 11,731 (v Leeds, 2004).

In: Rangi Chase (St George Illawarra), Dean Widders (South Sydney), Sione Faumuina (North Queensland), Stuart Jones, Ryan Hudson (both Huddersfield), James Evans, Chris Feather (both Bradford), James Ford (Sheffield), Kirk Netherton (Hull KR), Brett Ferres (Wakefield).

Out: Luke Dorn (Harlequins), Awen Guttenbeil (retired), Anthony Thackeray (Widnes), Stuart Donlan (Leigh), Ned Catic (Barrow), Adam Fletcher, Mark Leafa (both released), Peter Lupton (Celtic Crusaders), Andrew Henderson (Gateshead), Brendan Hlad (York), Michael Korkidas (Huddersfield).

Player to watch: Joe Westerman - a rising star 12 months ago and still only 19 but the gifted loose forward should make big progress in 2009, including an England debut.

Rising star: Richard Owen - still only 18 but already an established Super League player who has the talent to go all the way after being switched from wing to full-back.

Odds to finish top: 150-1.

Prospects: The Tigers will benefit from a first year of consolidation and, with some useful additions, they could start the long climb up the table.

Prediction: 10th.

CATALANS DRAGONS

Coach: Kevin Walters (since December 2008).

Captain: Casey McGuire.

Previous finishes: 12th, 10th, 3rd.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Clint Greenshields 17; goals - Thomas Bosc 118; points - Thomas Bosc 265.

Biggest Super League win: 66-6 (v Salford, 2007).

Biggest Super League defeat: 60-12 (v Leeds, 2006).

Ground and capacity: Gilbert Brutus Stadium, 10,000.

2008 average attendance: 8,488 (up 307).

Record Super League attendance: 11,122 (v Wigan, 2006, at Stade Aime Giral).

In: Steven Bell (Manly), Jason Ryles (St George Illawarra), Shane Perry (Brisbane), Mathias Pala (Limoux), Michael Tribillac (Lezignan), Romain Mencarini (Toulouges), William Barthaw (Pujois).Out: John Wilson (returning to Australia), Alex Chan (retiring), Aaron Gorrell (Brisbane), Mathieu Griffi, Younes Khattabi (both Toulouse), Justin Murphy (UTC).

Player to watch: Jason Ryles - a vastly-experienced former Australia Test player who will have plenty of support in an impressive-looking Catalans pack to make a big name for himself in Super League.

Rising star: Florian Quintilla - the 20-year-old was given a gentle introduction to Super League in 2008 and will be aiming to establish a regular spot under the new coach.

Odds to finish top: 20-1.

Prospects: Rookie coach Kevin Walters has a hard act to follow in Mick Potter but home advantage should ensure the Catalans comfortably make the play-offs.

Prediction: 6th

CELTIC CRUSADERS

Coach: John Dixon (since December 2005).

Captain: to be announced.

Previous finishes: 2nd in National League One (Grand Final runners-up) in 2008.

2008 leading scorers (National League): tries - Tony Duggan 16; goals - Mark Lennon 80; points - Mark Lennon 177.

Biggest Super League win: n/a

Biggest Super League defeat: n/a

Ground and capacity: Brewery Field, 8,500.

2008 average attendance: 1,929 (up 859).

Record Super League attendance: n/a

In: Mark Bryant (Manly Sea Eagles), Matty Smith, Steve Tyrer (both St Helens), Peter Lupton (Castleford), Lincoln Withers, Marshall Chalk (both Canberra), Ryan O'Hara (Wests Tigers), Adam Peek (Cronulla), Jason Chan (Windsor Wolves).

Out: Ian Webster, Aaron Summers (both Central Queensland Comets), Jamie I'Anson, Paul Ballard (both Oldham), Gareth Dean (Carcassonne), Philippe Gardent (released), Neale Wyatt (Pia).

Player to watch: Tony Duggan - a prolific tryscoring full-back in the National Leagues, the 30-year-old Australian has the chance to show he can cut it at Super League level.

Rising star: Ben Flowers - one of the few Welshmen in their squad, the Crusaders have high hopes for this 21-year-old second rower.

Odds to finish top: 350-1.

Prospects: The Crusaders will largely be an unknown quantity and they suffered major disruption in pre-season with many of their star players stranded in Australia but, with a shrewd boss in John Dixon and home advantage, they can spring a few upsets in their inaugural season.

Prediction: 12th.

HARLEQUINS RL

Coach: Brian McDermott (since July 2006).

Captain: Rob Purdham.

Previous finishes: 4th, 2nd (runners-up), 7th, 8th, 11th, 6th, 8th, 5th, 10th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 9th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Matt Gafa 10; goals - Rob Purdham 45; points - Rob Purdham 110.

Biggest Super League win: 72-8 (v Wakefield, 2005).

Biggest Super League defeat: 74-12 (v Bradford, 1999).

Ground and capacity: Twickenham Stoop, 12,700.

2008 average attendance: 3,773 (up 378).

Record Super League attendance: 9,638 (v Paris, 2006, at The Valley).

In: Chad Robinson (Parramatta), Luke Dorn (Castleford), Ben Kaye (Leeds), Jason Golden (Wakefield), Luke Williamson (Manly Sea Eagles), Mick Nanyn (Oldham), Matt Gardner (Salford), Luke Gale (Doncaster).

Out: Henry Paul (Leeds RU), Scott Hill (retired), Mark McLinden (returned to Australia), Julien Rinaldi (released), Rikki Sheriffe, Mike Worrincy (both Bradford), Dwayne Barker (Halifax), David Toothill (Batley), Joe Walsh (Huddersfield), Lamont Bryan (released).

Player to watch: Luke Dorn - a big favourite with the Londoners in 2005 and 2006, the Australian stand-off will be looking to rediscover his freescoring form.

Rising star: Ben Kaye - a victim of the surfeit of talent at Headingley, the 20-year-old hooker looks ready for Super League.

Odds to finish top: 100-1

Prospects: Coach Brian McDermott has taken a gamble by signing National League players and Quins could face a season of struggle.

Prediction: 11th.

HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS

Coach: Nathan Brown (since December 2008).

Captain: to be announced.

Previous finishes: 12th, 12th, 12th, 12th (relegated), 1st in NFP, 10th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 5th, 10th.2008 leading scorers: tries - Paul Whatuira 13; goals - Chris Thorman 83; points - Chris Thorman 187

Biggest Super League win: 68-16 (v Leigh, 2005).

Biggest Super League defeat: 86-6 (v Leeds, 1999).

Ground and capacity: Galpharm Stadium, 24,500.

2008 average attendance: 7,846 (up 763).

Record Super League attendance: 15,629 (v Leeds, 2008).

In: Brett Hodgson (Wests Tigers), Scott Moore (on loan from St Helens), Joe Walsh (Harlequins), Simon Finnigan, Keal Carlile (both Bradford), Shaun Lunt (Workington), Michael Korkidas (Castleford), Gregg McNally (Whitehaven, loaned back for the season), Larne Patrick (unattached), Josh Griffin (Wakefield).

Out: Chris Thorman (Hull), John Skandalis, Rod Jensen (both returned to Australia), Shane Elford (Penrith Panthers), Stuart Jones, Ryan Hudson (both Castleford), Steve Snitch (Wakefield).

Player to watch: Brett Hodgson - a brilliant attacking full-back whose best days may be behind him but he should still become a crowd favourite at the Galpharm.

Rising star: Michael Lawrence - an 18-year-old centre who was short-listed for Super League's young player of the year after catching the eye in 2008.

Odds to finish top: 40-1.

Prospects: No club has been busier in the close season and, under new coach Nathan Brown, the Giants look capable of at least making the play-offs.

Prediction: 7th.

HULL FC

Coach: Richard Agar (since May 2008).

Captain: Lee Radford.

Previous Super League finishes: 9th, 11th, 7th, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 3rd, 5th, 2nd, 4th, 11th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Kirk Yeaman 16; goals - Danny Tickle 81; points - Danny Tickle 182.

Biggest Super League win: 82-6 (v Salford, 2004).

Biggest Super League defeat: 64-10 (v St Helens, 2002) - also lost 71-0 at Bradford in 2005 play-offs

Ground and capacity: KC Stadium, 25,404 .

2008 average attendance: 13,432 (down 1,121) .

Record Super League attendance: 19,549 (v Bradford, 2003).

In: Dominic Maloney (Dewsbury), Chris Thorman (Huddersfield), Mark Calderwood (Wigan), Sam Moa (Cronulla)

Out: Matt Sing (retired), Garreth Carvell (Warrington), Scott Wheeldon (Hull KR), James Webster (Widnes), Adam Dykes (released), Matty Dale (Featherstone).

Player to watch: Richard Horne - 2008 was a virtual write-off for the former Great Britain half-back but, with a full off season behind him, he has the chance to recapture his old form.

Rising star: Dominic Maloney - a 21-year-old prop who looks ready to make the step up after serving his apprenticeship with National League club Dewsbury.

Odds to finish top: 20-1 Prospects: The only way is up after Hull finished a woeful 11th in 2008 but the collapse of the move to sign Michael Crocker was a devastating blow and a return to Old Trafford looks a long way off.

Prediction: 8th.

HULL KINGSTON ROVERS

Coach: Justin Morgan (since July 2005).

Captain: Mick Vella.

Previous Super League finish: 11th, 7th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Peter Fox 13; goals - Paul Cooke 40; points - Paul Cooke 84.

Biggest Super League win: 42-6 (v Hull, 2007).

Biggest Super League defeat: 60-20 (v Warrington, 2007 - also lost 40-0 v St Helens).

Ground and capacity: Craven Park, 10,215.

2008 average attendance: 8,554 (up 1,394).

Record Super League attendance: 10,197 (v Hull, 2008).

In: Nick Fozzard (St Helens), Liam Colbon (Wigan), Ryan Esders (York), Scott Wheeldon (Hull).

Out: Jon Steel (Featherstone), Kirk Netherton (Castleford), Luke Menzies (released), Chris Chester (retired), Garret Crossman (South Sydney).

Player to watch: Clint Newton - was arguably Rovers' best player in the first half of his first season with the club and was sorely missed when he sat out the last two months with a knee injury.

Rising star: Liam Watts - an 18-year-old front rower who was introduced three times off the substitutes' bench in 2008 and is likely to get more chances this year.

Odds to finish top: 50-1.Prospects: After making huge strides in their second season in the top flight, 2009 looks like another year of consolidation for Justin Morgan's men.

Prediction: 9th.

LEEDS RHINOS

Coach: Brian McClennan (since November 2007).

Captain: Kevin Sinfield.

Previous Super League finishes: 10th, 5th, 2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 4th, 5th, 4th, 2nd (lost in final eliminator), 1st (champions), 2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 2nd (champions), 2nd (champions).

2008 leading scorers: tries - Scott Donald 21; goals - Kevin Sinfield 119; points - Kevin Sinfield 255.

Biggest Super League win: 86-6 (v Huddersfield, 1999).

Biggest Super League defeat: 68-14 (v Wigan, 1996).

Ground and capacity: Headingley Carnegie, 22,000.

2008 average attendance: 16,756 (down 660).

Record Super League attendance: 23,035 (v Bradford 2003).

In: Danny Buderus (Newcastle), Greg Eastwood (Brisbane Broncos), Luke Ambler (Salford)

Out: Gareth Ellis (Wests Tigers), Ben Kaye (Harlequins), Nick Scruton (Bradford), Eric Anselme (Toulouse), Clinton Toopi (released).

Player to watch: Danny Buderus - something of a legend in Australia, Buderus is a clever footballer who can add something to a well-oiled machine once he recovers from the shoulder operation that curtailed his season with Newcastle.

Rising star: Kallum Watkins - a naturally-gifted centre who made his senior debut at just 17 and did not look out of place in any of his outings in 2008.

Odds to finish top: 13-8.

Prospects: Poised to become the first Super League club to complete a hat-trick of title triumphs. The major loss of Gareth Ellis should be more than offset by the arrival of Greg Eastwood and Danny Buderus and the Rhinos have youth on their side.

Prediction: 1st.

SALFORD CITY REDS

Coach: Shaun McRae (since June 2007).

Captain: to be announced.

Previous Super League finishes: 6th, 11th, 12th, 9th, 10th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in National League, promoted), 9th, 9th, 5th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in National League, promoted).

2008 leading scorers: tries - Paul White 17; goals - John Wilshere 67; points - John Wilshere 174.

Biggest Super League win: 48-10 (v Wakefield, 2006).

Biggest Super League defeat: 96-16 (v Bradford, 2000).

Ground and capacity: The Willows, 11,363.

2008 average attendance: 3,768 (down 1,420).

Record Super League attendance: 8,070 (v Leeds, 2007).

In: Ray Cashmere, Mark Henry (both North Queensland), Jeremy Smith (South Sydney), Luke Swain (Gold Coast), Rob Parker (Warrington), Willie Talau, Dean McGillivray (both St Helens).

Out: Paul Highton, Andy Ballard (both Oldham), Andrew Brocklehurst (Barrow), Matt Gardner (Harlequins), Chris Borgese (returned to Australia), Daley Williams (Keighley), Luke Ambler (Leeds), Steve Bannister (Widnes), Leon Walker (released).

Player to watch: Jeremy Smith - a big-name signing from the NRL, Smith has international experience with New Zealand and that can help rising star Richie Myler settle on the big stage.

Rising star: Richie Myler - big things are expected of the teenage half-back who has already played for his country and he has the temperament to pass the test with flying colours.

Odds to finish top: 250-1.

Prospects: Salford should be good enough to avoid the wooden spoon on their return to Super League but they will lack the consistency needed to make the play-offs.

Prediction: 13th.

ST HELENS

Coach: Mick Potter (since December 2008).

Captain: Keiron Cunningham.

Previous Super League finishes: 1st (champions), 3rd, 4th, 2nd (champions), 2nd (champions), 4th, 1st (champions), 4th, 5th, 1st (lost in final eliminator), 1st (champions), 1st (runners-up), 1st (runners-up).

2008 leading scorers: tries - Ade Gardner 28; goals - Sean Long 104; points - Sean Long 242.

Biggest Super League win: 78-4 (v Leigh, 2005).

Biggest Super League defeat: 70-0 (v Leeds, 2004).

Ground and capacity: GPW Recruitment Stadium (formerly Knowsley Road), 17,100 .

2008 average attendance: 10,740 (up 927).

Record Super League attendance: 18,098 (v Warrington, 1996).In: Tony Puletua (Penrith).

Out: Willie Talau, Dean McGillivray (both Salford), Paul Sculthorpe, Mike Bennett (both retired), Nick Fozzard (Hull KR), Sam Thompson (Widnes), Scott Moore (Huddersfield on loan), Steve Tyrer, Matty Smith (both Celtic Crusaders).

Player to watch: Tony Puletua - Saints' only new recruit is a rare ball-handling forward with deceptive pace and boasts a wealth of top-flight experience.

Rising star: Kyle Eastmond - Sean Long rates this 19-year-old half-back and there can be no finer tribute. His build and pace is reminiscent of a young Jason Robinson.

Odds to finish top: 13-8.

Prospects: Sure to be battling it out with Leeds at the top but Long and Cunningham are another year older and much will depend on how quickly Mick Potter can integrate the club's youngsters into the squad.

Prediction: 2nd

WAKEFIELD TRINITY WILDCATS

Coach: John Kear (since July 2006).

Captain: Jason Demetriou.

Previous Super League finishes: 11th, 10th, 11th, 11th, 11th, 6th, 10th, 10th, 8th, 8th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Damien Blanch 13; goals - Danny Brough 86; points - Danny Brough 188.

Biggest Super League win: 68-6 (v Halifax, 2003).

Biggest Super League defeat: 72-8 (v London, 2005).

Ground and capacity: Belle Vue, 11,000.

2008 average attendance: 7,000 (up 217).

Record Super League attendance: 11,000 (v Castleford, 2006).

In: Steve Snitch (Huddersfield), James Stosic (Gold Coast).

Out: Duncan MacGillivray (retired), Jason Golden (Harlequins), Paul Reilly (Oldham), Brett Ferres (Castleford), Josh Griffin (Huddersfield).

Player to watch: Damien Blanch - the former Widnes and Castleford winger was Wakefield's leading scorer in 2008 after a delayed start and, after a superb World Cup for Ireland, can be expected to make an even bigger impact this year.

Rising star: Jay Pitts - Wildcats saw fleeting glimpses of the promising 19-year-old second rower in 2008 and, with the departure of three established back rowers, he will have a chance to make a claim for a regular spot.

Odds to finish top: 100-1.

Prospects: Wakefield have yet to plug the gaps created by a host of departures and they will need all the nous of veteran coach John Kear to avoid a season of struggle.

Prediction: 14th.

WARRINGTON WOLVES

Coach: James Lowes (since June 2008).

Captain: Adrian Morley.

Previous Super League finishes: 5th, 9th, 10th, 7th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 6th, 8th, 4th, 6th, 7th, 6th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Chris Hicks 16; goals - Chris Hicks 70; points - Chris Hicks 204.

Biggest Super League win: 66-6 (v Halifax, 2003).

Biggest Super League defeat: 72-2 (v St Helens, 2002).

Ground and capacity: Halliwell Jones Stadium, 13,024.

2008 average attendance: 9,496 (down 1,014).

Record Super League attendance: 14,206 (v Wakefield, 2004).

In: Garreth Carvell (Hull), Mickey Higham (Wigan).

Out: Rob Parker (Salford), Andy Bracek (Barrow).

Player to watch: Mickey Higham - Wigan could yet regret their decision to release the England hooker, who remains one of the best dummy-half runners in Super League.

Rising star: Tyrone McCarthy - 20-year-old back-row forward who impressed with Warrington's reserves in 2008 and is expected to make further progress after completing his studies and going full-time.

Odds to finish top: 10-1.

Prospects: Is this the year the perennial under-achievers finally achieve the big breakthrough? The signings of Carvell and Higham are positive steps so the signs are encouraging.

Prediction: 4th.

WIGAN WARRIORS

Coach: Brian Noble (since April 2006).

Captain: Sean O'Loughlin.

Previous Super League finishes: 2nd (runners-up), 4th, 1st (champions), 4th, 1st (runners-up), 2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 3rd (runners-up), 4th, 7th, 8th, 6th, 4th.

2008 leading scorers: tries - Pat Richards 19; goals - Pat Richards 115; points - Pat Richards 307.

Biggest Super League win: 78-4 (v Workington, 1996).

Biggest Super League defeat: 70-0 (v Leeds, 2005).

Ground and capacity: JJB Stadium, 25,004.

2008 average attendance: 13,955 (down 2,085).Record Super League attendance: 25,004 (v St Helens 2005).

In: Mark Riddell (Parramatta), Amos Roberts (Sydney Roosters).

Out: Trent Barrett (Cronulla), Mickey Higham (Warrington), Mark Calderwood (Hull), Liam Colbon (Hull KR).

Player to watch: Mark Riddell - an experienced hooker with clever hands who will also provide useful goalkicking back-up to Pat Richards.

Rising star: Sam Tomkins - burst onto the scene in 2008 with four tries on debut in the Challenge Cup against Whitehaven, this 19-year-old half-back is aiming to emulate older brother Joel by forcing his way into the first team.

Odds to finish top: 10-1.

Prospects: Wigan still need a couple of "star" names if they are to challenge the big two, particularly after the departure of Trent Barrett.

Prediction: 5th.

Odds courtesy of William Hill.

http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/ne...uper_Guide.html

[Philippe Barrau]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/rugbyleag...club-guide.html

[Philippe Barrau]

http://journauxdumidi.com/supplements/1302...S_CATALANS.php5