St Helens vs Warrington Wolves Prediction: Scully backs Saints to keep marching on

The Betfred Super League returns this week as St Helens host Warrington Wolves at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday night (20:00, live on Sky Sports Main Event).

Betfred ambassador Paul Sculthorpe shares his St Helens vs Warrington Wolves prediction as his beloved Saints bid to move into the top-two of the Betfred Super League table.

I had the pleasure of attending the fabulous Cheltenham Festival last week - and actually did alright with my selections! However, as most punters will tell you, and last week’s races proved, favourites don’t always triumph.

However, as per predictions between Saints and Leeds in the Betfred Challenge Cup the favourites brought it home.

Inspired by young starlet Harry Robertson, Paul Wellens' men bounced back from the defeat to Hull KR with a 22-14 win over Leeds Rhinos.

There were some vastly-improved performances than of late. Jonny Lomax had far more creativity and time on the ball. The pack, again led by Morgan Knowles, Alex Walmsley and George Delaney, never took a backwards step.

But, it was the elusive Robertson who stood out. I’ve been very impressed with Harry’s performances so far this year, shifting from his accustomed full-back role, to make the right-centre position his own.

Still only 18, and still lots of physical development to come, he has certainly caused opposition defences trouble, with his elusive feet and pace, but ability to pick the right pass when required.

He crossed the whitewash against the Rhinos, for his seventh try in six games, while having a hand in others. It’s great for the game as a whole to see exciting youngsters of this potential come through in the Betfred Super League - and of course heartwarming to see him sign a new four-year contract with the club.

This was the 18th time in the last 19 games that Saints have turned over the Yorkshire visitors. I honestly don’t know what has happened over at Headingley, from a club who used to always challenge for silverware to a team who look distinctly average at best. Can’t say I agree with some of their ‘star’ signings, mind.

In his post-match interview, Wello was clearly pleased and relieved to get the win, and in the bag for the quarter-finals. He did admit there is still a lot of improvement in his side, and I agree.

On Monday, that quarter-final draw was made, and Saints were handed another huge game away at rivals Warrington.

There will be an opportunity for both teams to get a feel for each other before then though, as this week the Wolves travel to the Totally Wicked Stadium this Friday.

Warrington come into this game after an unconvincing 26-16 cup win over Championship neighbours Widnes. Prior to that they were taken to pieces by Wakefield, the week after being humbled in Las Vegas 48-24 by Wigan.

One thing we do know though, as always the visitors will up their intensity and desire to win come Friday evening. However, I’m going to tip a home win by seven points or more.

Latest outright odds from Betfred for the cup have Hull KR 11/4 favourites, with Saints 7/2 and the Wire at 4/1. To triumph in the Betfred Super League Grand Final, Wigan are 6/5 favourites with HKR at 4/1, St Helens 5/1, Warrington at 7/1 with Leigh at 12/1.

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