SL Preview: Hull KR v Catalan

Probably the toughest game to call in round one comes at Craven Park, as Hull KR host Catalan.

The Dragons enjoyed two excellent seasons under the stewardship of Trent Robinson, who has now left for Sydney Roosters and been replaced by Laurent Frayssinous.

For Rovers, they missed out on the play-off party in Craig Sandercock’s first year in charge, but they have recruited some good players from these shores and abroad, and will be looking to restore the place in the top eight.

Home advantage might just give Rovers the edge in this one, although they have lost their last four games against Catalan, including three last year.

The French are without star half-back Scott Dureau though, who is continuing his recovery from eye surgery. Also missing is powerful forward Lopini Paea.

Michael Dobson will have a new half-back partner for Rovers, following the departure of Blake Green, and they might just be able to guide Sandercock’s men to two points on the opening weekend.

Hull KR 19-man squad: Salter, Caro, Lovegrove, Horne, Walker, Paterson, Mika, Tuimavave, Cox, Griffin, J Hodgson, Paea, Carlile, Hall, Dobson, Eden, Latus, Withers, D Hodgson.

Catalan 19-man squad: Webb, Blanch, Pryce, Taia, Bosc, Elima, Henderson, Casty, Menzies, Anderson, Mounis, Barthau, Pelissier, Millard, Pala, Bousquet, Fakir, Baitieri, Duport.

Prediction: Tough to call, but home advantage gives Rovers the edge – Rovers win.

Stats:

Catalan Dragons have won their last four meetings with Hull KR, with the Robins’ last victory coming 30-28 at Stade Gilbert Brutus on 3 September, 2011.

The Dragons have also won on their last three visits to Craven Park – with Hull KR‘s last home victory against the Catalans coming 24-6 on 6 June, 2010.

Super League summary:

Hull KR won 6
Catalan Dragons won 7 (includes win in 2011 play-offs)
Hull KR highest score: 44-10 (H, 2009) (also widest margin)
Catalan Dragons highest score: 56-6 (H, 2011 EPO) (also widest margin)