Leigh have stolen the show in Betfred Super League this year by surging towards an improbable play-off place in their first season back in the top flight.
With the Leopards looking strong alongside Catalans Dragons, Wigan and St Helens, a furious battle is developing for the final two post-season slots – not to mention a potential twist at the bottom of the table.
With 10 weeks of the regular season remaining, the PA news agency runs the rule over the 12 teams ahead of a potentially pivotal weekend of action.
CATALANS DRAGONS (Pld 17/Pts 26)
Boosted by the exuberant form of winger Tom Johnstone and underpinned by the ever-evolving Arthur Mourgue, consistent Catalans look strong bets to land their second League Leaders’ Shield.
LEIGH (17/22)
With yards from John Asiata, points from Josh Charnley and precision from Lachlan Lam, there is little sign of the Leopards losing their spots.
WIGAN (17/22)
With Jai Field back in his favoured full-back role and Bevan French busier in the halves, the Warriors look in good shape for another post-season assault.
WARRINGTON (17/22)
Another loss to St Helens on Friday would pile more pressure on boss Daryl Powell, with his side facing the real possibility of sliding all the way out of the top six.
ST HELENS (16/20)
A win at Warrington would ease those fears and arguably confirm Saints’ status as favourites to reel off a fifth consecutive Grand Final triumph.
SALFORD (17/20)
Despite once again defying the odds for much of the campaign, back-to-back heavy losses – most recently at rock-bottom Wakefield – have raised questions over the Red Devils’ ability to stay the course.
HULL KR (17/18)
Jordan Abdull is their latest big loss, but despite a major battle to retain their top six slot, Rovers’ fighting spirit cannot be questioned.
LEEDS (17/16)
Heading to Salford on Sunday, the Rhinos’ traditional late-season surge is under way.
HULL (17/14)
With halves Jake Clifford and Jake Trueman outstanding, and homegrown Brad Fash typifying their fresh impetus up front, FC could end up running the top six close.
HUDDERSFIELD (16/10)
But with Wakefield stirring, under-pressure Giants boss Ian Watson needs to summon something from his tired side, unrecognisable from that basking in a Wembley Challenge Cup final just over 12 months ago.
CASTLEFORD (17/8)
WAKEFIELD (17/4)
Fully behind boss Mark Applegarth and galvanised by the recent arrival of Luke Gale, Wakefield would issue another major statement if they manage to get something from Wigan on Friday night.
