This Week's Rugby League - Part Two

By The Man

A couple more tips for this weekend from the lower leagues to add to the ones from Super League:

Oldham v London Skolars


 
17th April 15:00 GMT

Oldham are boosted by the recent signing of prop Luke Stenchion and could have four regular first teamers returning from injury in the shape of Marcus St Hilaire, Luke Sutton, Neil Roden and Matthew Fogarty. They have suffered heavy recent defeats to title contenders Swinton and Keighley but the additions to their squad will make a world of difference. They piled on the points when beating hapless Gateshead and London are only marginally better than them.

The handicappers obviously have taken recent results in to consideration and London pushed Swinton close last weekend but in truth the home side took their collective foot off the gas and were never in danger. Obviously something similar could happen here but equally there is a chance of a landslide victory. I had Oldham by 28pts. If the handicap goes I'd still be prepared to take the 22pts on offer with bet365.

Pick: Oldham -20 3pts @ 1.91 (Sky Bet)
 
Batley v Widnes


 
17th April 15:00 GMT

Both these teams had disappointing exits from the Northern Rail cup last weekend and will be looking to bounce back. Widnes have brought in a couple of players from Wigan in the shape of Logan Tomkins and Dom Crosby whilst Batley could be without Paul Mennell and Mark Toohey.

Batley have been traditionally strong at home and like nothing better than putting one over on their more fashionable rivals and Widnes know they will be in for a tough encounter. I don't really have much in terms of ability between these two teams and home advantage has swung a bet for me in the Batley direction. Add in the luxury of a converted try start, together with even money and I'm happy with my wager. I had Batley as ever so slight favourites.

Pick: Batley +6 3pts @ 1.91 (Bet365)
 
The Man