Wellens: Signs of hope for new laws
Huddersfield 0 St Helens 28
ST HELENS coach Paul Wellens claimed this clash proved rugby league can retain its appeal despite the crackdown on head contact.
Players across Super League have struggled to adapt to strict new laws in the opening two rounds but there were signs of progress at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Saints hooker Daryl Clark was the only player carded for a professional foul in the closing stages of a hard-fought contest.
Wellens said: “This game showed that rugby league, played in the right way with discipline, can be as attractive, if not more attractive, than it’s ever been.
“This is new to everybody. We’re going down a new path here and conversations will need to take place.
“Players are making a real concerted effort to try to change habits.
“We’re doing that because we know that’s the direction the game has to go in.”
Huddersfield are one of only two teams – along with London – to get through the opening two rounds without losing a player to a card.
Despite staying on the right side of referee Aaron Moore, Giants boss Ian Watson admits there is anxiety about potential citings.
“Everyone is keeping their fingers crossed that nothing gets picked up,” he said.
Huddersfield have other issues to contend with after being shut out by St Helens who scored five tries through Matt Whitley, Sione Mata’utia, Jack Welsby, Jon Bennison and Morgan Knowles.
“It was a very professional performance,” added Wellens, whose side backed up their round-one win over London.
“We had a pretty good win against London but knew we had to make improvements. I thought we made those.
“There’s a lot to like about what we’re doing at the moment. It’s still very early days and we know we’re going to have to continue to work hard. This is never an easy place to come and get a result.”