The Stats Zone
March 3 2023, 13:58 · Ash Wheldon

Routes to victory for St. Helens against Leeds Rhinos

Routes to victory for St. Helens against Leeds Rhinos

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St. Helens did not let jet lag or a lack of preparation impact them as they defeated Castleford Tigers last week in their first Super League game of the season. Saints will take some stopping once again this season as they go in search of an incredible fifth successive SL crown and TSZ has looked at three reason why they should prevail once again against Leeds Rhinos:

HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORD

Saints have won 11 successive league matches against the Rhinos and some of those contests have been one-sided affairs. They have dominated their opponents in recent matchups and with Leeds starting the season so poorly, it is hard to envisage their losing streak against the champions ending any time soon.

SAINTS TOO BIG THROUGH THE MIDDLE

Leeds have lacked quality in their pack in the opening matches of the campaign and bar a spell in their latest loss to Hull FC where they injected some energy from the bench, they have ultimately not done well enough on either side of the ball. On the other hand, Saints boast a big pack and their front row in particular is likely to bust some holes and lay a platform for the backs to fire.

BALL MOVEMENT

Despite St. Helens’ dominance in recent years, they have sometimes been guilty of playing within themselves and winning games based on how strong their defence has been. That is not to say they have struggled to post points, but the manner in which they have played has been methodical at times, as opposed to catching the eye with impressive ball movement. However, with Lewis Dodd back in the side following a long-term layoff which has allowed him to link-up with Jonny Lomax and Jack Welsby, along with some fresh ideas from new head coach Paul Wellens, Saints showed signs in their win over Cas that they could be capable of shifting the ball more effectively and that will be a big worry for Leeds.