JON Wilkin was pleased to make his return last Friday and believes there is more to come as the season enters its business end.
Saints’ Captain played his first game for over a month and was instrumental in the 32-18 win at Leeds.
“I was a little scratchy and rusty but it was good to be back,” he said. “Having watched the team over recent weeks I did some of the things I felt could influence what happens on the field. I was a little rusty at some of the basics though.
“It was a great win for us; a confidence changing win really. We have been in the doldrums a little recently so to win in the manner we did against Leeds was great.
“There is a big emotional story behind Leeds with Kevin Sinfield and Jamie Peacock moving on and a lot of things being written about them and it being their year.
“That can’t be our concern. Leeds are a great side and we have a load of respect for them but that are not unbeatable. We certainly aren’t a bad side either, we have just been playing poorly. You have to be cautious when you hear polarised opinions of teams.
“We had a load of respect for them and we still do, but we knew we were a better side than what we have been showing and I felt that came through on Friday.
“We can play better for sure and I don’t think we have played as well as we did in the first six weeks of the season. We have had good performances but the last few months have been a fluctuating period for us.
“As captain I want us to be more consistent. Against Leeds we set some standards certainly in terms of intent and effort that we need to continue.”
He continued: “Positions in the top four are still up for grabs. I am disappointed that our form has restricted our opportunities to finish top of the pile. We want to finish as high as we can. This game is important as we played well against Leeds and gained confidence from that.
“But the only way to build on that is to play well and win again.”
Tickets for Thursday’s game remain on sale from the Ticket Office at Langtree Park, by calling 01744 455 052 or online here.
