JOSH Jones is confident Saints can make up the points on those above them as the Super 8s progress.
Although they didn’t begin the new phase of the First Utility Super League competition with a win, the centre says they know what is required.
And thankfully, he will be part of Keiron Cunningham’s plans going forward after feeling no ill-effects from the shoulder charge to the head he received from Ben Pomeroy on Saturday.
“My jaw is fine, I just got a bit of a cut,” he said. “He caught me in a bad place and I needed stitches. I looked a bit of a melon out there with that bandage but we needed to stop the blood pouring out.
“It was a tough day at the office for us. We had our chances but didn’t capitalise on them so we have to start again this week. It’s a massive game for us and really it’s semi final footy all the way to the Grand Final now. We are eager to get back out there and get the two points.
“I like this system – it is good for players and fans as it gives us a drive to kick on. We are aiming for first place and we are confident we can get over this setback and get back on the horse. It’s done now, we’re three points off top spot and know we can make that up.”
Earlier in the year the 22-year-old announced he would be switching codes to join Exeter to the end of the season.
And whilst he is still very much looking forward to that move, the here and now is more important.
“My heart will always be in St Helens,” he continued. “Exeter will be a new chapter in my life but that hasn’t started yet. Hopefully I will have some silverware to take back down there with me.
“The deal had been done for a while but it wasn’t the right time for it to be announced earlier in the season as I wanted to keep my focus on what I was doing at the club. Obviously the staff knew but I wanted to keep my head screwed on and stay focused on what I wanted to do at Saints.
“I have family down in Cornwall so, as well as the challenge, I wanted to make a fresh start. If I was going to move out then it needed to be somewhere completely new.
“I have no doubt I will have to play a few games elsewhere to get back into the stride of the game.
“It was a life choice to make the switch and go down there and I am looking forward to it.”
Tickets for the Friday’s game against Hull FC (8pm) can be bought from the Ticket Office at Langtree Park, by calling 01744 455 052 or online here.
