ALEX Walmsley says it is all about attitude as Saints head to Headingley this Friday.
The prop pointed to the poor start against Widnes as an area they need to drastically improve – and that must be put right at Leeds.
“It was a hard fought win but we didn’t turn up until after 50 minutes really,” he said. “Widnes came with the correct attitude and we started a little lackadaisical. As soon as we went behind we corrected ourselves and turned it on.
“I thought for the back half hour we played some of the best stuff we have done in a while.
“We can’t go into this week starting like that. Leeds are a champion side and are top of the pile for as reason. They will be gunning for this game so we need to make sure we start correctly with a good attitude.”
The Super League clash is the second meeting of the sides this season – with a further one to come at the end of July in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Semi Final.
Whilst that tie isn’t on the minds of the players Walmsley does concede they will need to build up some form before that big date.
“The draw is what it is. You have to beat the good teams and we don’t mind the tough games. This Friday the Cup won’t even come into the reckoning. But we need to make sure we are playing well so we can take it into that Cup game.
“Leeds have had some odd results over the last few weeks but they are the form team. It is a must win game for us really.
“All our last four league games are must wins. We set targets and goals at the beginning of the season and that is to win silverware. To do that you need to be in the best position possible. We want to be in first going into the Super 8s as that will help us going into the playoffs and hopefully another Grand Final.
“That’s a long way off but the build-up starts this week.
“They will probably be down on numbers but, as we know, sometimes that has a good effect. Teams can dig deep and work hard. Leeds have a good middle though and if they win the battle there they will win the game.
“Peacock, Cuthbertson and Garbutt, they can cause damage. Our challenge is to meet that head on and we will need the right attitude.
“After the home game we do owe them one I suppose. We weren’t at the races and did a lot of uncharacteristic things.
“We’re certainly looking to amend things and show the rest of the comp we are the real deal.”
