This Weekend's Rugby League - Part Two

By The Man

Keighley v Whitehaven


 
27th March 15:00 GMT

For me, Keighley are the best team in the division. They were relegated last season but have retained much of last season's squad and have recruited new player coach Jason Demetriou who has bags of Super League experience. They have recorded a fine win against Toulouse in the Challenge Cup whilst 'Haven were hammered when facing similar opposition in Halifax, a team beaten by Toulouse.

Whitehaven went in to administration in the close season and were on negative points and have had to rebuild their squad. With all the local talent in West Cumbria I'm sure they'll be competitive but they shouldn't be favourites here. I had Keighley by 6pts.

Pick: Keighley +2 3pts @ 1.91 with Bet365
 

South Wales v Gateshead


 
27th March 12:00 GMT

South Wales didn't have the benefit of a Northern Rail cup campaign and started the Challenge Cup against Dewsbury a bit underdone and were hammered. Since then they have gradually improved and were just touched off last week against Whitehaven. I'm sure they'll improve further as the season progresses. They have a perfect chance to build confidence here.

Gateshead are woeful. They are no better than a decent amateur team and have been hammered in every game so far. Until they show any signs of being able to stop leaking points then they've got to be taken on with such a low start. I had South Wales by 36pts so again plenty of scope for a bet.

Pick: South Wales -28 3pts @ 1.91 with Bet365
 
The Man