This is gonna be a classic match between the 2 champions of Australia and England. Often in the past people have looked on these games as being pre season and not so important, Aussies in particular wouldnt be that fit and didnt see a win over an english side as a big deal. But Leeds are a side who have gained a lot of respect in the last 5 years and i dont think its unfair to say that were they in the highly rated NRL they would be able to finish in the top 6.

They won that championship again by shocking Saints in the final. But it was no close run thing, they hammered and were more than worthy winners. I think the one thing that has made Leeds a top side in world rugby has been defence. We always seem them playing open expansive rugby but sometimes they were let down by losing too many soft trys.

Manly hammered Melbourne last year and although it probably wasnt so much of a shock the scoreline was. They smashed them by about 40 points. I couldnt believe it as the Storm had been superb all season but it just goes to show the quality Manly have and how far they have come in such a short space of time.

I have to say im surprised the bookies are thinking of 6 or 7 trys in this game as when games mean so much they are always very tight and both sides will show each other great respect. Dont expect either team to throw it around early on it will be a case of making your sets and kicking for field position, thus hoping for a mistake.

If either side get a penalty they are sure to kick for goal to get points on the board.

This will be tight with some massive hits and if Peacock is up for it Leeds can sneak it. But i have a feeling we may only see 1 or 2 trys in the entire game as both sides know each other is one of the strongest in the world and are desperate to be crowned world champions.

Leeds v Manly under 7.5 trys with laddys at 1.73