Justin Holbrook said James Roby was one of the best players he’d ever seen as the skipper led Saints to their second derby win of the season.
The mercurial hooker was pivotal as his side beat the Warriors 14-6.
“He made an unbelievable effort and was the difference between the two sides,” Holbrook said. “I have never seen a player that defends in the middle make so many cover tackles in the middle of the field. Usually you see things like that on the wing but he made several tackles to stop dangerous opportunities tonight.
“Both sides were run off their feet, but he is the middle keeping going. He is a phenomenal player and we are so grateful and happy he is in our side. He is one of the best I have ever seen; one of the best in the world.”
He continued: “I think we were the best team tonight but I don’t think it was easy. It was one of the toughest games I have watched. There wasn’t a lot of tries – neither team gave an inch – and it showed the brutality of our game for 80 minutes.
“We were the ones creating chances, but we weren’t good enough to finish them off and they kept on coming. It was another cracking derby and happy we came away with the win.”
Holbrook said both Ben Barba and Mark Percival were late withdrawals from the side, but should be fit to return next week.
Next up for Saints are Warrington on Thursday July 26 the Totally Wicked Stadium (7:45pm). Tickets are now on sale from the Ticket Office, by calling 01744 455052 or online here.