Justin Holbrook was happy Saints played well in their 34-14 win over Warrington but doesn’t want to get too carried away.
His side ran in six tries against their Semi Final opponents at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
“I have to admit it has been a really awkward week,” he said. “It’s hard when you know you’re playing a side that you’re facing in two weeks time. It was important that we played well and we did that, but I don’t think it mattered who won or lost today for the game in a couple of weeks.
“We have played well all year and wanted to continue that. We have put ourselves in a good position and didn’t want to let ourselves down today. We scored some nice tries and I am really happy with the performance.”
He continued: “Benny (Barba) showed what he can do today. I have defended him for the last six to eight weeks with good reason. He’s had niggling injuries he’s had to get over and now he is over them.
“Jonny Lomax was brilliant too but I also realise that their six and seven didn’t play in the second half. It was great from our end – but we had our strike on the field and they didn’t.
“I am happy we played well but I’m keeping it in context.”
Holbrook also praised the young guns after the performance.
“Matty Lees, Jack Ashworth and James Bentley played big minutes. Today was a good opportunity to leave them out more than usual. It was great for them and their development.
“It was good to see Dom Peyroux get back too whilst Ryan Morgan was great.
“We still have Roby, Amor and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook to come back in too and it will be good to get them back.”
Saints close out their Betfred Super League Super 8s programme at home to Castleford this Friday September 28 (7:45pm).
Tickets are on sale from the Ticket Office, by calling 01744 455 052 or online here.
