Behind the Sticks Week 1

After a 4 month break Super League is back, bigger and better than ever. With a record breaking crowd set to be in attendance at the JJB the scene is set for the beginning of a truly memorable engage Super League XII.

Both Wigan and Warrington have been the most active in the pre-season recruitment stakes. Fans on Friday night will be able to see such players as Barrett, Leuluai and Bailey; Anderson, Morley and Johnson. Friday night will be a "who’s who" of Rugby League stars.

Warrington have been recruiting strongly for the last three years and owner Simon Moran will see 2007 as the time to see some silverware at the Halliwell Jones Stadium. Supported by a huge following from Warrington the Wolves will look to record a victory at the JJB to start their season off well.

Despite the signings of Vinnie Anderson, Paul Johnson and the blockbusting Adrian Morley Warrington will look to Lee Briers to be their talisman in 2007. Briers will look for more support this season from half back Chris Bridge who I feel could be a star of 2007.

What’s in store for Warriors fans this year?

Brian Noble has strengthened the team notably in the half back area. Any team with the talents of Thomas Leuluai and Trent Barrett at 6 and 7 will have a great chance in Super League.

Barrett oozes pure class and will expose defensive weaknesses in a flash. His arrival in the UK could go down alongside in history, up there with other significant Aussie signings such as Wally Lewis, Brett Kenny and Peter Sterling.

What of the other signings? Phil Bailey arrives to add further quality out wide whilst seasoned Super League pro's like Withers and Millard will add steel to a young team.

One homegrown player to watch out for is young Paul Prescott who given the opportunity could be one of the young players of the year.

I also expect a massive season from Gareth Hock after his outstanding Tri-Nations tour. Gareth could even be an outside bet for the Man of Steel award in 2007.

This game could be one of the best of the season at the very outset of Super League XII. Two very evenly matched sides with world-class players all over the park.

I think this game will hinge on the half back battle and I just think Trent will edge this one and take Wigan to an opening day victory.

Hold onto your seats... its going to be a cracker!!

Winning Margin – Wigan Warriors to beat Warrington Wolves by 1-5 points
1st Try Scorer – Gareth Hock

The Riversider

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