HULL KR have been somewhat of a nemesis for Saints over recent years.
Last season, Craig Sandercock’s team emerged victorious three times as Michael Dobson inspired them to success.
And although the half back has now moved on, and they’ve had an indifferent start to the season, Nathan Brown expects them to be just as challenging this season.
“Hull KR are an interesting team,” he said. “Their attack is really challenging and they test your defensive line. They ran Leeds close first up, got a draw at Huddersfield and then lost at Castleford after losing some players to bans.
“Those players will be back this week and the forwards are physical. I’m not sure the table reflects where they are going to end up. When they get going they play some great football.”
Saints come into the match on the back of three wins, including what looked to be a comfortable win over Salford last Thursday.
“It was a lot tougher than the scoreline suggested,” Brown added. “They completed something like 90 per cent of their sets and had a lot of good players on the field. To keep them to zero was brilliant.
“We’re happy with how we’re improving and know we have to keep on doing that to keep up with the sides above us last year.
“After Easter is when you normally see how teams are really going. Wigan rested players and did well against Wakefield whilst Warrington have good forwards coming back. There’s still work for us to do.”
Brown expects Gary Wheeler to be available after missing the win over Salford with a dead leg whilst Mose Masoe could make his debut.
“Mose has trained well and will be in our 19 man squad. We will make a decision on whether he is ready in the next day or so.
“The fans have high hopes for him and Mose should get a lot of confidence from that. He is a mature player for his age and the minute he does start playing he will contribute well and will get better and better.”
Tickets for Friday’s game remain on sale from the Ticket Office at Langtree Park, by calling 01744 455 052 or by logging on here.
