By BILLY GRIMSHAW
THE first round of action is fast approaching in the Betfred Super League and the men in the middle have been confirmed for round one.
Phil Bentham will take charge of the televised curtain raiser between old rivals St Helens and Leeds at the newly christened Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens on Thursday February 9.
A double header marks the first Friday night of Super League in 2017 and Robert Hicks will be the man in charge as many people’s pick as dark horses Castleford host new boys Leigh Centurions live on Sky Sports.
Across the Pennines in Widnes, the Vikings host Huddersfield and former marine Jack Smith has been appointed referee.
James Child will be the first official to take charge in the aouth of France in 2017. Child has been assigned to the Saturday night game between the new look Dragons and last season’s league leaders Warrington, also live on Sky Sports.
Champions Wigan begin the defence of their crown at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford, facing a Red Devils side still buoyant from their great escape in last year’s million pound game. Referee Ben Thaler will take charge of this clash.
Finally, the only tie falling on the traditional rugby league slot of Sunday afternoon is last season’s surprise package Wakefield hosting the Challenge Cup holders Hull FC. Chris Campbell will be the last of the referees to officiate over the weekend.
