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Saints’ Man-of-Steel James Roby is revelling in the starting hooking role this season.

Before Keiron Cunningham’s injury, Robes was interchanging with the big number nine as Head Coach Daniel Anderson tried out new combinations.

But now the 21-year-old has been thrust into the limelight and it’s fair to say has taken the opportunity with both hands.

He told Saintsrlfc.com: “I am enjoying it to be honest. I have gotten use to starting games and I suppose I need that to aid my development as a player.

“I’ve been given more responsibility and I know I need to lead the team a bit more when I am on the pitch.

“When you start a game, you are under more pressure and have to play a lot more minutes. You have to pace yourself more. There is a lot of emotion in the first 15 or 20 minutes of a game and you have to learn to be patient.”

Roby has made 41 starting appearances in his career and a further 76 off the bench.

But he has started eight times this season, bagging three tries in the process.

“It’s different coming off the bench and wanting to make an instant impact,” he continues. “I have more patient and read the game better and that’s where Daniel, Mike Rush and Keiron Cunningham have helped me.”

Daniel Anderson praised the contribution of his young number 9: “Robes has wanted to start more games this season and has been given that opportunity.

“He’s grasped the mantle and to say he has been a shining light would not do credit to his toughness, talent and determination.

“He has led from the front, never shirked his workload and has been a beacon in the first team this season.”