Hull FC haven’t had the best Super 8s campaign to date, but they will come to the Totally Wicked Stadium looking to end their season on a high.
That’s the thoughts of Saints Head Coach Justin Holbrook as he prepares his side to face the Airlie Birds this Friday.
“Hull FC still have dangerous players but have had three of their best players out for a long time,” he said. “You can’t replace your three best players with three more best players so they are doing it tough.
“I feel for Radders in that respect but we will worry about how we are going this week. They will come here looking to turn their season around.
“We want to play well and win every game leading into the semi-finals but we know we will be judged on that semi-final and beyond. We want to play well with the best side that is fit enough for the next few weeks but we know we have to get it right at the semi.
“We have a few doubts this week after the tough game at the weekend. Zeb Taia has a sore hip and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook has an ankle problem. If they recover they will play; if not, they won’t. Ryan Morgan will need another week and that is probably the same for James Roby too as he has a shoulder problem.
“Ben Barba was due to play on Saturday but was a late withdrawal after our captain’s run. If he’s right, he will play.
“I’ve said all year that I won’t rest players for the sake of it. If they are right to play they will play – if they aren’t then because we have secured a home semi-final we have earnt the right to rest players.
“We’ve had some good news on Dom Peyroux too. The bone has healed well and he is due another scan next week. If that goes well he will be able to play. It will be great to have him back as he is an important part of team.
“I would be good to get him a couple of games in ahead of the semi-final.”
Saints put one hand on the League Leaders’ Shield with a 26-22 win in Catalans on Saturday – a result Holbrook was proud of.
He continued: “To get up early in the day, fly over and get the win and then fly back – that was fantastic for us. The likes of Aaron Smith, Matty Lees and Jack Ashworth played really well as did the senior guys – Jon Wilkin, Jonny Lomax and Luke Thompson.
“It is a hostile place to play so to come away with the win was great. We’re now looking forward to Friday.”
Tickets for the game with Hull FC, which kicks off at 7:45pm, are on sale from the Ticket Office, by calling 01744 455058 or online here.