Saints ready for a real test
ST HELENS are in buoyant mood as the Super 8s get under way with their trip to face table-toppers Castleford Tigers at the Mend-AHose Jungle tomorrow night.
Head coach Justin Holbrook’s men are just a point behind the top four and a win would take them third on the ladder.
However, they take on an in-form Tigers that are yet to be beaten at home.
“To draw Cas first up is as tough as you can get,” he said.
“They are sitting first too but it is a game we are looking forward to. I am are happy with how we are playing and I’m looking forward to a tough game.
“We have clawed ourselves back into the mix and had to win three in a row to do that – we aren’t there just yet but we are in striking distance.
“We know if we win our games we will make the semis. A few weeks ago it was ifs and buts, so it is encouraging and gives us a lot of confidence heading into this period.”
But the Saints coach is fully aware of the test that awaits his side.
“Cas have been the form side and play a great style,” said Holbrook.
“They all know what they are doing and have been doing that from pre-season. They all know their roles and how they play.
“They are a gutsy team too as they have won some close ones recently.
“But we have improved a lot as a team and it will be a good game.
“They have been streets ahead of others but we have fought our way into the second best points for and against and that is a positive for our team. If we can get a win it puts us in a good spot.”
Half back Matty Smith has an outside chance of featuring in the game, but Thursday after suffering that horrific eye injury against Leeds in June, but prop Luke Douglas will miss out. ■■Hull FC have signed prop Mickey Paea and winger Bureta Faraimo for 2018 on two-year deals from NRL sides Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors, respectively.
Forward Paea, 31, returns to the Airlie Birds having spent two years with the club after joining from crosscity rivals Hull KR in 2014.
Faraimo, 27, played for the USA at the 2013 World Cup and began his NRL career the following year with Parramatta. Huddersfield Giants v Wakefield Trinity (8pm), Hull FC v Salford Red Devils (8pm), Leeds Rhinos v Wigan Warriors (8pm, Sky) Widnes Vikings v Warrington Wolves (8pm) Hull KR v Halifax (3pm) Batley Bulldogs v Swinton, Bradford Bulls v Toulouse, Dewsbury Rams v Rochdale Hornets, Sheffield Eagles v Oldham (all 3pm)