KEIRON Cunningham was “immensely proud” of his side’s second half performance as they beat Widnes to go back to the top of the First Utility Super League.
Saints turned aside a 14-6 deficit to win 30-20 at the Select Security Stadium.
“I thought at times they were untouchable in that second half,” he said. “We had a conversation with the players at half time… we said we set some really high standards at this club regardless of who and where we play. We said if we play to those standards across the board then we should do exceptionally well.
“I thought we looked jaded in the first half but in the second, we set the standard high and I knew if we maintained it we could get the game comfortably. But we had to stick to the process.
“The spirit is high here; you can try and fabricate certain things in rugby and make teams do things but without that genuine bond then you won’t push through the tough times together.
“Just look at that break from Danny Craven. Everyone tracked back and yes, we got some luck because he fell over, but we put him under pressure. Then we defended the set. That resilience is unteachable.”
Cunningham praised Atelea Vea and Joe Greenwood’s contributions after the game as well as Travis Burns who was “outstanding”.
“Yet again my forwards held their hands up. Mose (Masoe) is coming to the table now, Alex is setting his stall out too and the kids are doing a good job. It’s really promising.
“Lance did well too and it will be tough not to pick him next week after that.”
Tommy Makinson suffered concussion in the match and will have to go through the usual protocols to have a chance next week.
Cunningham also said there was no news on Jonny Lomax and Mark Percival as the club will seek second opinions before making a statement.
