Leeds, competing in their third consecutive World Club Challenge, take on Melbourne Storm for the right to be crowned the best Rugby League team in the world. Both teams are full of world class players in what is one of the most eagerly awaited matches in the tournaments history. The Rhinos go into this having made a stuttering start to their Super League campaign this year, but can be forgiven as this will have been their focus from the start of the season. The lush turf of Elland Road is the venue for this game, far different conditions that Leeds have experienced over the last few weeks at Headingley. Yet it must not be forgotten that Leeds beat Melbourne in 2008 (at Elland Road) 11-4 so revenge is definitely in the minds of the Storm players. Leeds are at full strength apart from Scott Donald. Melbourne too are without some big names, namely half-back Cooper Cronk, but are also missing forwards Brett White and Sika Manu.
It should be a tight encounter with both teams having solid defences, so tries may be few and far between. Two years ago Leeds took first blood with a penalty and are 8/1 (Skybet) to do the same again. This is the game that Leeds have been waiting for since they disposed of St Helens last year at Old Trafford and the +4 (various) on them looks the safest bet of the evening. Leeds need to win this game, not just for themselves, but for the game of Rugby League in England.
