Warrington Wolves v Wigan Warriors
Handicap: Warrington -8
What a mouth watering contest we have in store on Thursday night. By their own admission both sides have not been at their best this season, but they have the ability and players to produce special moments. This was evident in last season’s grand final, when Wigan came back from 16-2 to win the Super League trophy. While the stakes may not be as high tonight, gaining a victory could prove vital in kick starting one of these side’s faltering start this season.
For Warrington, the real difficulty this season has been scoring enough points to win matches. The half back combination of Richie Myler and Gareth O’Brien showed signs of improvement last week at Salford, and given playing time together it could develop rapidly. Warrington have always been strong up front with the likjes of Chris Hill and Roy Asotasi, however I’m not sure tonight they will be gifted the same amount of possession and field position as they were against the Red Devils last week.
As for Wigan, without a doubt the key point coming into this game is the loss of Sean O’Loughlin and Michael McIlorum. They are the spine of the Warriors side, and their record without O’Loughlin in particular is not great. He provides so much for them in both attack and defence and a lot of Wigan’s hopes now rest on Matty Smith and Blake Green. If they can create try scoring opportunities, then Wigan have prolific wingers in Josh Charnley and Joe Burgess.
I can’t see there being much between the two sides this evening and I’m very surprised that the bookies have set the handicap so high. I personally couldn’t pick between the two sides, and with some rain also forecast for Thursday afternoon it could turn the game a little scrappy. With Warrington odds on to win, I’d side with the visitors as they represent much better value at a very big 12/5.
If I were you … I’d back Wigan +8 at 10/11 or Wigan outright at 12/5
If you’re looking for bigger odds… take Wigan to win by 1-5 points at 6/1
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