We’re nine weeks into the Betfred Championship, and here’s a lowdown of the second-tier action coming your way this Bank Holiday weekend!
Round 9 will kick off in the capital on Saturday afternoon as London Broncos host York Knights.
The Knights enjoyed a 10-24 success when they were last down south in 2023, but can the Broncos muster up a win on home soil this time around, or will Mark Applegarth’s men be returning to York with the two points?
Table toppers Halifax arguably face one of their toughest challenges yet as they make the trip over to the south of France to face Toulouse.
Stade Ernest Wallon is traditionally a proud fortress for the French side, who have endured defeat just once there in 2025 and lost just twice at home in 2024.
Sylvain Houles’ men are back on home soil for the first time since late March and will be hoping they can produce a strong performance for their home fans.
Likewise, ‘Fax will want to keep hold of their place at the top for yet another week, as both teams are already starting to look like genuine contenders this year.
Halifax's last away victory against Toulouse came nearly eight years ago – a 16-8 scoreline back in 2017…
Barrow, who are sitting in second spot, travel to Batley in Round 9, but can they continue their winning streak?
Paul Crarey’s remarkable Raiders have won five of their last six matches in the competition and are right in the mix at the top end of the table – and have arguably and impressively exceeded initial expectations.
Having finished one place above the relegation Play-Off spot in 2024, it is a big upturn in fortunes and an unbelievable turnaround for the Cumbrian side.
It was one a piece in the league last year with Batley winning comfortably at home (22-2), whilst Barrow triumphed 24-14 in the reverse fixture.
The visitors can ill-afford to underestimate Batley, however, as the Bulldogs are renowned for causing an upset when it is least expected.
Who’s ready for a blockbuster tie at Bartercard Odsal?
Bradford, who are in blistering form, will take on Sheffield Eagles. The Bulls have won their last six meetings against their opponents, although the Eagles will certainly be boosted by their massive win against Batley in Round 8.
Then, there’s a tie between two sides hoping to bounce back from disappointing defeats in the previous round.
Doncaster have won their last eight home meetings with Oldham, but it’s the Roughyeds have performed better so far this year.
Finally, Hunslet are at home to Widnes. Prior to their AB Sundecks 1895 Cup meeting this year, the two sides haven’t met since 2011.
Round 1 of the 1895 Cup saw Hunslet host Widnes, with a tight 26-28 scoreline in the Vikings' favour.
Widnes had to come from behind numerous times, before Max Roberts came up with the match-winner. Will we see another close contest?
Betfred Championship Round 9 fixtures:
London Broncos v York Knights
Toulouse Olympique v Halifax Panthers
Batley Bulldogs v Barrow Raiders
Bradford Bulls v Sheffield Eagles
Doncaster v Oldham
Hunslet v Widnes Vikings
Featherstone Rovers – Bye week
Don’t forget you can make your Betfred Championship predictions on the Rugby League website here or in the Our League app now. Download the Our League app on iOS or on Android to start playing the Predictor Game!
The Betfred Championship’s full fixture list can be found here.
Photo Credit: London Broncos
