4th February 2012

Salford vs Castleford Betting: Castleford can spoil the party in Salford's first game in their new home

Salford City Reds begin life in their new stadium on Saturday night in front of the Sky cameras when they take on Ian Millward’s Castleford Tigers side in the opening match of the Super League season for both sides. It has been all change at Salford in the close season and Phil Veivers will be hoping his Reds side can get off to a winning start in their new stadium. Salford are 10/11 to win this one with Skybet.

Salford could well give debuts to a number of players in this contest. Stephen Wild will skipper the side on his debut and his side is likely to include fellow debutants in the shape of Jordan James, Matty Ashurst, Joel Moon and Stuart Howarth. Stefan Ratchford was a big loss for the Reds in the close season when he joined Warrington and although the City Reds have a strong pack their backs don’t look anywhere near as good on paper.

Castleford coach Ian Millward has no problems with his backs with the likes of Richard Owen, Ryan McGoldrick, Rangi Chase and Danny Orr all excellent Rugby League players. In the forwards Millward is well served too with Brett Ferres and Ryan Hudson key men. The Tigers will be without Craig Huby for this match. Paul Jackson, Steve Snitch and Nick Youngquest are also likely to be missing the season opener.

I think this will be a real season of struggle for the Salford City Reds and that can begin with Castleford spoiling their party here. Ian Millward has his sides playing open, expansive rugby and I think Castleford will be a very good team to watch this year. Even if Salford have a good season it could take a few games to bed in and get used to each other. Castleford don’t need that and I think they will be the stronger side here.

Back Castleford to beat Salford for a 4/10 stake at 2.20 with Stan James

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