- Date: Friday, 18th July 2025
- Venue: AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium, Leeds
- Fixture: Leeds Rhinos vs Salford Red Devils
Game Preview
Anticipation is high at Headingley as Leeds Rhinos welcome the Salford Red Devils for a critical Super League Round 19 clash. Leeds are chasing toward the top of the table while Salford, rooted at the bottom, are fighting desperately for pride and points. Both sets of fans will be eager to see a statement performance as we edge closer to the business end of the season.
Leeds Rhinos enter this fixture after a run of mixed fortunes but remain top-four contenders. Following a run of victories in May and early June against the likes of Wakefield, Warrington, and Castleford, the Rhinos experienced a setback with a defeat to St Helens (4–18) and more recently, their match-night was dampened by a 0–6 loss to St Helens at Headingley. Squad depth is being tested at just the wrong time, yet their home form has often provided the inspiration needed to bounce back.
Salford Red Devils’ season has been fraught with adversity and tumult—on and off the pitch. A solitary league win and a point haul that leaves them bottom of the ladder underscores the challenge they face. Recent results include a heavy 6–38 defeat at home to Hull FC, a 12–24 reversal against Wakefield, and a much-needed victory last weekend against Castleford Tigers. With several first-team regulars missing through injury, the Red Devils are expected to field a heavily rotated side once again, banking on their youthful spirit to overturn the odds.
Injuries and suspensions play a pivotal part in the narrative. For Leeds, the forward pack is severely depleted: England international Mikolaj Oledzki is sidelined for up to eight weeks after a facial fracture, and Tom Holroyd faces a six-week layoff following wrist surgery. Tom Nicholson-Watton is still out, so teenage forward Presley Cassell is primed for a debut from the bench. Salford’s woes are equally acute. Centre Esan Marsters (shoulder), stand-off Jayden Nikorima (arm), and prop Loghan Lewis (concussion) miss out after picking up injuries against Castleford. Their places are taken by Charlie Glover, Finley Yates, and Sam Hill, leaving the side inexperienced but hungry for opportunity.
Key Players to Watch
- Leeds Rhinos: Brodie Croft (half-back mastermind), Harry Newman (dynamic centre), Ash Handley (try machine on the wing), Jarrod O’Connor (versatile hooker/second row), and Lachie Miller (attacking full-back).
- Salford Red Devils: Marc Sneyd (organiser and sharpshooter), Sam Stone (back-row leader, fitness-permitting), Kallum Watkins (skipper and ex-Rhino), Chris Atkin (stand-in hooker/utility), and Oliver Partington (forward with a big motor).
Prediction
Expect Leeds to dominate territory and possession, especially given Salford’s injury-hit line-up and ongoing struggles away from home. While Salford showed resilience to edge Castleford last time out, Headingley on a Friday night is a different beast. If Leeds’ makeshift pack can provide a platform, their potent backs should have plenty of opportunities to test the Red Devils’ defence.
Predicted score: Leeds Rhinos 30–10 Salford Red Devils
Betting Markets
| Market | Prediction | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time Result | Leeds Rhinos Win | 1/6 | Bet Now |
| Handicap (-16.5) | Leeds -16.5 | 10/11 | Bet Now |
| Total Points Over 40.5 | Over 40.5 | 5/6 | Bet Now |
| First Try Scorer | Ash Handley (Leeds) | 10/1 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 4/9 | Bet Now |
| Salford +16.5 | Salford +16.5 | 10/11 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative; always check your bookmaker for the latest prices. Gamble responsibly.
A big atmosphere, crucial points at stake, and plenty of fresh faces—expect fireworks at Headingley as Leeds look to continue their playoff push against a determined but depleted Salford side.
