Draw is the toughest we could have, says Agar

ST HELENS coach Kristian Woolf says the Super League champions are determined to end their 13-year wait for Challenge Cup glory.

Saints lifted the trophy seven times in the first 13 years of Super League but they have endured a barren run since their 28-16 win over Hull at Wembley in 2008, a fact that took then Hull coach Richard Agar by surprise.

Agar is now in charge of the Leeds team which stands in the way of Woolf’s men in today’s third-round clash.

“I think it’s the toughest draw you can get, there’s no ducking away from it,” Agar said.

“Kristian and his team have been a real benchmark team for a fair period of time and they’ve had an impressive start to the season.

“One thing that did surprise me is that it’s been a while since they’ve actually won it, given the success they’ve had.

“As I was the losing coach at Wembley that day, I hope that’s not an omen.”

Woolf is hoping for a first win in the famous knock-out competition after Saints went down 20-18 to Warrington in 2020, his first season at the club.

“As soon as the draw was made, there was a real excitement among the players,” he said.

“Leeds obviously had some success last year and we get the opportunity to play the Challenge Cup champions. That usually comes a little bit later I suppose but we can’t wait for the game.

“The fact that we haven’t had success in this competition for a very long time hasn’t been lost on us.”

Agar added: “We spoke pre-season about our desire and the manner in which we want to try to defend the trophy.

“Clearly memories like that are very special for players and they are memories you want to experience again and again.”