Huddersfield Giants vs St Helens Predictions: Saints to maintain perfect start

St Helens legend Paul Sculthorpe previews Saints' visit to Huddersfield Giants in the Betfred Super League on Saturday evening (17:30).

Well, I was spot on with my prediction that Saints would begin their 2024 Betfred Super League campaign with a win by 30 points or more over the newly-promoted London Broncos.

It was a convincing victory and there was lots to be positive about. Head coach Paul Wellens was also pleased with the opening 80 minutes of the season, but he did bemoan temporary drops in standards, which was probably down to over-playing following a blistering start to the game.

One thing I mentioned in last week's column was the Broncos' expected attitude and endeavour against their superior opponents and you certainly can’t fault their efforts. Unfortunately for them, that wasn't enough and I'm afraid to say they could be in for a long season.

I was particularly impressed with some of Saints' debutants last week - especially Man of the Match Darryl Clark and Matt Whitley, who crossed for two tries.

Clark was always going to be heavily-scrutinised after taking the famous number nine shirt of the irreplaceable James Roby, but clearly that's not something that's played on his mind much as he's kicked off his Saints career in style.

I’ve been a fan of Clarky for a long time and, knowing his capabilities, I thought he didn’t always do himself justice at Warrington over the last few years. But I thought he, as a vastly-experienced international who suits the way we play, was an extremely shrewd signing by Wello and the early signs are very positive indeed.

A lot has been said about filling the boots of Roby, but I think he can bring his own strengths to improve the team. His pace out of dummy half is exceptional, something he showed on Friday night and will hopefully continue to do so throughout the season on the back of a strong Saints pack.

Whitley came up with everything I expected of him. Continuously showing up in both attack and defence. One thing I love about Matt is his willingness to push for others on attack, which resulted in two tries on debut.

"I think these two players in particular make this year's Saints a stronger proposition."

Up next for Saints is a trip to Huddersfield to face the Giants, who themselves opened up with an impressive away win over the fancied Leigh Leopards.

They were massive underachievers in 2023, missing out on the play-offs despite numerous big money signings. However, with big changes in personnel, Ian Watson will be looking for far more consistency as they bid to challenge for silverware this season.

If both teams perform to their best ability, Saints will surely have too much. I fancy the lads to win by 13 points or more which is a 5/4 shot at Betfred.

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