IN rugby union, Lions v Crusaders is a massive southern hemisphere Super Rugby contest.

Well, that's also the case in rugby league!

A super Sunday is in store with two 100 per cent winning records on the line as League 1 leaders Swinton host second-placed North Wales Crusaders.

Both sides have won their opening three games of the league season and they've bagged a combined tally of 352 points so far.

"It's probably going to be our toughest test yet," admitted Crusaders' head coach Anthony Murray.

"They're scoring a lot of points and it's no mean feat to go to Doncaster and put 60 points on them.

"They're coming off three wins and they will obviously want to win at home and keep themselves at the top.

"We're anticipating a real tough fixture and we've got to make sure we compete."

Swinton Lions head coach Allan Coleman told the club's YouTube channel this weekend would be the "toughest game" so far.

"Certainly the toughest game we'll have played so far."

Coleman added: "North Wales, he's got them going well there and they're a good side.

"They'll be a real tough team to beat but, you know, all week now we'll be focused on them and working on where maybe we're not happy with, but also working to get at what we're doing well as well.

"So, looking forward to the game, exciting.

"They play different to the teams we've played.

"They're quite dynamic and they go forwards very good and they can play on the back of that and they've got some great players in that team, who can play at a higher level, I've no doubt.

"Anthony's done really well there and he's got them all playing for each other, so it'll be good.

"It'll be interesting to see where we're at from the first game we played them."

North Wales go into the encounter boasting decent away form this season.

After a narrow opening day success at Rochdale Hornets, the Crusaders swept aside hosts London Skolars 54-6 last weekend.

"It was a good trip," added Murray.

"Our preparations going down there were good and the lads were relaxed.

"We only gave one penalty away against London so that was a massive plus."

Alex Eckley could come back into contention this weekend, while recent acquisition Ben Moores is also likely to be pushing for a place in the matchday squad.

"It's a nice headache, if you like, to be able to have some bodies come back to your team," added Murray.

"It makes you a bit stronger and adds that competition for places."

It also means players pretty much to be at their game each weekend to remain in the squad, although there are a couple of injury concerns ahead of the huge clash.

Jordy Gibson has ankle concerns, while Pat Ah Van is nursing a shoulder injury, so a close eye is being kept on these two key players this week.

This weekend's action in League 1 begins today, with third-placed Rochdale Hornets at home to Oldham, while Keighley Cougars head to Hunslet.

Tomorrow, Cornwall face a long trip north to tackle Doncaster, while Sunday's remaining game will see Midland Hurricanes hosting London Skolars.