Former Parramatta Eels second-rower Dean Widders scored a try as Castleford Tigers established themselves as realistic Super League title contenders by brushing aside rock-bottom Crusaders 56-16.

Widders was on the scoresheet, one of 10 Tigers tries, just before the interval but it was 24 points from Kirk Dixon that did most of the damage as the home side lifted themselves to third on the table.

Dixon helped himself to two tries, as did rookie hooker Daryl Clark, and also kicked eight goals as Terry Matterson's men moved just two points shy of leaders Warrington with a game in hand.

For the Wolves, former Canberra star Joel Monaghan bagged two tries in the 24-6 win over Wigan, with the reigning champions tasting defeat for the first time since September.

Matty Blythe notched the first try in the seventh minute before Monaghan's double and a fourth try from Richie Myler as well as four goals from the ever-reliable former Wests Tigers fullback Brett Hodgson.

Elsewhere, former Newcastle hero Danny Buderus score a rare try as Leeds downed Wakefield 28-6, but he was not the star of the show.

20-year-old rookie centre Kallum Watkins took that mantle with four tries as the Rhinos turned a 4-0 half-time deficit into a comfortable win.

Huddersfield moved into second behind Warrington after Danny Brough notched 18 points in the 38-16 win over early-season strugglers Hull KR.

The 28-year-old bagged two tries and five goals while Jermaine McGillvary, Michael Lawrence, Scott Grix, replacement Luke Robinson and David Hodgson all also scored.

Hull KR started well with Kris Welham crossing after three minutes but despite him grabbing another they were no match for the Giants with Ben Fisher the only other scorer.

Meanwhile, Paul Wellens and Jamie Foster were both at the double as St Helens followed up last weekend's defeat of Leeds with a 28-16 win over the Bradford Bulls.

Ex-Sydney Rooster Chris Flannery joined Wellensand Foster in scoring with the latter kicking three goals as the Saints won at their temporary home, Halton Stadium, for the first time.

It was an unwelcome return for former St Helens coach Mick Potter as his Bulls only replied through two tries from Shaun Ainscough and eight points from Patrick Ah Van.

Elsewhere, surprise package Harlequins' impressive start to the season went up in smoke - going down 40-30 to Hull FC.

For Quins, Luke Gale was at it again kicking five goals and running in a try for a 14-point haul but a seven-try Hull display - including two from Kirk Yeaman and one from former NZ Warrior Epalahame Lauaki - saw them take the spoils.

And finally Salford City Reds wing Jodie Broughton scored four tries as they saw off the charge of the Catalan Dragons 22-10.

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