SAINTS will face a “hungry” Salford side looking to gain a valuable home win.
That’s the view of Head Coach Nathan Brown who is preparing his charges for the Round 19 Super League clash this Friday.
“Our last match together won’t count for much!” he said. “We played in snow, had a very young side out and it was all about getting through it and gaining a win. This is a different scenario as we will have a much more experienced squad out this time.
“The key for us is to move forward and have an improved performance on our match with Bradford. Salford have a fair few ex-Saints players in their line up and also blokes who are probably playing for their futures too.
“I would imagine after a week off they’d come back hungry and be ready for us. They have pace in the wings and a handy half back partnership too.”
Although Saints have lost Sia Soliola for an extended time there’s better news on Anthony Walker and Gary Wheeler.
“Walks and Wheels will train with the side this week and when they are fully fit we can then decide where they play – whether that is using dual registration or in the side. A lot depends on the state of the squad at the time.
“Luke Thompson missed the last game with a virus and he is back in contention too but even though Ade Gardner’s head is ok we won’t be seeing him back for an extended period. Mark Percival is only a young lad and isn’t physically as big as say Luke Thompson.
“Jonny Lomax also pulled through the Bradford game well. Long term we see him at fullback but we opted to roll him at stand off and fullback on the advice of the medical team because of the distance you cover in each position
“Paul Wellens has adapted his game nicely as a result and has done well for us. It suits us that they can play either position and are confident in either spot.”
Tickets for Friday’s match at Salford remain on sale from the Ticket Office at Langtree Park or by calling 01744 455 052.
