KEIRON Cunningham has spoken of his pride after Saints battled through to beat Castleford 21-14 last night.
His side overcame an emotional week with a performance full of vigour and valour to stay top of Super League.
“I was really proud of what they did today,” he said. “It wasn’t the most entertaining of games but we won after an emotional week for us.
“A lot of pride was hurt after the Souths game. It was tough to get them up and ready for it on a short turnaround – we did about 20 minutes training which was recovery more than anything else – so I am really proud of the effort.
“We were done in certain areas but hung on in there. Castleford came to play and throw the ball about. We didn’t seem to get going at times.
“When we lost Kyle we displayed the grit and determination I wanted to see. We got angry and nasty at what was vital period for us. It could have hurt us, but the boys lifted and I am proud of what they did.”
He continued: “Yet again though we seem to be playing to another set of rules. I wasn’t sure whether it World Club Challenge or Super Leagues rules today but it was different from the other two rounds.
“In round one and two the rucks were quick and there were 20 penalties a game. Then there were none in World Club Challenge and today everything was slow too. If that is how it is going to be then we can coach that. Cas did a great job of slowing us down but if that is the way it is going to be then I would like to be told.
“If that is how it is we will be put more emphasis on wrestling.”
Keiron said a number of players stood out as Saints preserved their unbeaten run but laid particular praise on James Roby.
“We have won three games now and I am more than happy with that. Cas have had a couple of games taken off them this season and at times they looked refreshed and had more energy than we had so perhaps they should have done better. But we hung on in there.
“The outside backs let us down last week. They’ve had a tough week video wise and I thought they were a lot better this week.
“James Roby was immense tonight though; he did everything and was making cover tackles from all over the place.
“He is probably brushing up in the stadium now.”
