Challenge Cup 2013: Start Time and Score Prediction for Epic Final

Whittled down to just two teams from a field of almost 100 amateur and professional clubs, this Saturday sees Wigan and Hull FC face off for the 2013 Challenge Cup crown.

Of the two Super League teams, it’s Shaun Wane’s Warriors who have had the far easier route to Wembley, rarely having to change out of first gear as they moved past the likes of the London Broncos and Widnes Vikings.

However, Hull’s more testing route to London may put the underdogs in good stead for the encounter, with their semi-final triumph over Warrington standing out as a particularly encouraging display.

Opta stats have tweeted just where Hull stand out as a superior outfit, noting their propensity to break enemy lines in particular:

Furthermore, Hull now look the more in-form side after winning their last three Super League matches, whereas Wigan have lost three of their last four league outings.

Where: Wembley Stadium, London

When: Saturday Aug. 24 at 3 p.m. BST

Watch: BBC One

Stream Info: BBC Sport website

Wigan Warriors Player to Watch: Pat Richards

Playing in what will be his last Challenge Cup final, Pat Richards will be as eager as any to ensure that Wigan leave Wembley with a second Challenge Cup victory in three seasons.

The Australian is returning to his native NRL with Wests Tigers for the 2014 campaign and will look to cap a memorable eight years in England with yet more silverware.

Speaking to Sky, the 31-year-old spoke on his time with Wigan and the build-up to this weekend’s event, stating:

"

This will be my last Challenge Cup final so I am just looking forward to enjoying the week and enjoy the occasion. I came over here at the age of 23 and I was only planning to stay for two seasons but it's eight now.

I have enjoyed every minute of it and I have the best memories. I have met some great people and I only have good things to say, I will really miss it. I am looking forward to getting on the pitch and enjoying the atmosphere. I know I have a big job to do with the extra responsibility of goal-kicking but that's my job.

"

Those goal-kicking responsibilities will likely prove imperative to any Warriors success, whether it comes from conversions or the veteran’s evident drop goal ability.

Over the course of his Australia career, the winger has proven himself to be a pressure player and able to step up on the biggest of stages.

Richards, a former Man of Steel winner and one of the highest point-scorers in the Super League this season, will be asked one final time to rise to the occasion, and few would back against him doing so.

Hull FC Player to Watch: Daniel Holdsworth

One of the Southern Hemisphere contingent in Europe’s top tier, Australian Daniel Holdsworth, is likely to bear a great deal of the Hull FC burden at Wembley.

The 29-year-old was a crucial presence in his side’s 16-12 semi-final win over Warrington Wolves last month, picking up the man of the match award.

Holdsworth must again play the role of conductor in Peter Gentle’s back-line, using his superb technical skills to ensure Hull’s dream of a shock win can become a reality.

The occasion certainly isn’t lost on Holdsworth, either. Speaking to the club’s official website, the stand-off noted that this would be the pinnacle of his playing days thus far:

"

Playing in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley Stadium will be the biggest game of my career so far without a doubt. I’ve never played in a final before and that was one of the big attractions for me coming to Hull last season because I knew this club had the talent and potential to make it to these type of games.

"

Not many expected the Black and Whites to make their way past Warrington in the semis, but Holdsworth’s cool head when in enemy territory allowed Joe Arundel, Tom Lineham and Richard Whiting to shine.

The No.6 will be expected to orchestrate matters going forward, but with the likes of Sam Tomkins and Josh Charnley running at his defence this time, Holdsworth will be examined under completely different conditions.

Score Prediction: Wigan Warriors 23-29 Hull FC