St Helens vs Leigh Leopards Predictions: Sculthorpe tips comfortable Saints win

Betfred Super League leaders St Helens entertain Leigh Leopards at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday night (20:00) - and Saints legend Paul Sculthorpe has previewed the tie.

We're two games into the season and, after a couple of convincing wins, Saints sit atop the Betfred Super League table - but the players and fans won't be getting carried away just yet!

What they will be focusing on is putting in another high-class performance this Friday at home to the Leigh Leopards.

Head coach Paul Wellens was delighted with the 28-0 victory against Huddersfield last weekend, which he remarked was an improvement on the previous win over London Broncos.

He also said there was no obvious standout performances, emphasising the team effort which he said was a great sign. Clearly he was delighted that every player took care of their own roles and responsibilities and got the job done together to a very high standard.

One of the many things I have always loved about this club, including when I was playing, is that players are always accountable to their teammates - and that standards are driven from within.

It’s clear the squad is thoroughly enjoying things at the minute. The performance on Saturday against a much fancied Giants side was pretty clinical - and again new signings Darryl Clark, Matty Whitley and Waqa Blake continued to impress in the Red V.

There's definitely been a big improvement on attack in the opening two fixtures. Nothing flash, just doing what Saints have always done best by playing fast with high skill level and bodies in motion. This is something Paul Wellens has focused on during the off-season and evidently it’s working.

So, Leigh come to the Totally Wicked Stadium after a week off due to the World Club Challenge and, following an opening-round defeat to the Giants, I’m sure they are chomping at the bit.

However, based on current form I can’t see past a Saints win by 15 points or more. I believe the new signings this season have added another dimension to the team and hopefully Friday will again prove that.