If Leeds can't beat Castleford, how can they compete against the mighty Melbourne Storm?

Billy Slater, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk are all playing.
So too is Ryan Hoffman. And Brett Finch is a reserve!

Look out Leeds!

Did you say the same thing before the Manly game last year, Jean?

I don't recall saying such a thing last year.

Means nothing. Leeds only play when they can be bothered to, which they will be against Melbourne.

Melbourne took a hammering in their first trial game last week. Although several players were missing.

Easy, they have shown before the ability to peak when required - ask Brett Finch what happen in a couple of games last year when it really mattered.

I am not saying they will beat the Storm what I am saying is they will play a lot better than today.

What is the betting Silverwood gets the game!!

Leeds probably lose more often at Cas away than they do in World Club games so drawing a form line between Cas and the NRL champions probably shows... Cas are the best team in the world?

I can't work out if Pie Eaters have actually started to believe this thing they tell themselves yet

I know that rugby league is a team game, but it will be interesting to see the world's two best players -- Cameron Smith , the deserved winner of the Golden Boot award, and Billy Slater -- up against the actual Golden Boot winner, "Sir" Kevin Sinfield.

I wonder which one of these three definitely won't be Man of the Match?

I hope the Aussies hammer them.

being british (wigan fan) i hope leeds beat the aussies, and will be cheering for leeds. But i think it will depends on what kind of shape Melbourne are in, out side of that spine the outside backs are not so good and they have lost a lot of talent, Sika Manu, Dane Nielsen and not to mention the injuries Matt Duffie and Kevin Cropter.

Wish full thinking but i just hope Eddie doesn't bang on all season about leeds being the best team in the world if they do win.

I basically agree with your analysis of the Melbourne three quarter line. However the Melbourne forward pack is still strong, and if they can do their job, the spine will weave its magic and the three quarters will just need to catch the ball to score the tries that Billy Slater doesn't score.

Good move by Melbourne to arrive in the UK 10 days before the match. They will be over their jet lag by match day. I hope that the Leeds and other fans show up. The match deserves a full house.

Hopefully we're taking 1 step at a time.