JAMAHL Lolesi thinks this Friday’s derby is the ideal game as Saints look to build into the Super League season.
A sell-out Langtree Park will welcome the Wigan Warriors in what is set to be a mouth-watering clash.
“These are generally tasty games and I’m sure both sides will be ready to go on Friday afternoon,” the assistant coach said. “I probably didn’t understand the games before I came here but the last three years have been real eye openers.
“They have been great games, big games, and something we all want to be involved in. I was part of some big games in Australia and they are similar to your origin games and test matches in terms of intensity and ferocity early on.
“Over the years these games have been pretty even with a try or so in it with ten minutes to go. I have no doubt it will be tight again.
“We know that when Wigan want to score points they can. They did that against Leeds and can click up a gear. They haven’t found their top form yet and neither have we. Perhaps the game comes at the right time for both of us.
“Both are going relatively ok but either team hasn’t been spectacular. No one wins a Grand Final in March though. There is lots of time to build and get ready and I’d rather be playing well at the back end of the year than now.”
Saints head into the fixture relatively healthy but will be without Atelea Vea.
He is set to be out for the next couple of weeks with a soft tissue injury.
“We’re relatively fit and we want to keep fit over Easter too as it is important for us,” Lolesi continued. “The games don’t get any easier for us, but we’ll get through Friday, see who is fit and then worry about the game on Monday. Friday is our priority at the moment
“I’d imagine everyone would get a game over Easter. We have a deep squad and it would make sense to use it. The reserves comp has given us a chance to see some of the boys play against men.”
Friday’s game is a sell out but there are extremely limited hospitality spaces available.
For any other ticket enquiries for this game contact the Ticket Office on 01744 455 052.
