St.Helens R.F.C. Chairman Eamonn McManus has penned his regular column for our match day programme ahead of the Saints’ Round 11 match in Betfred Super League 2025, and discusses; First Team recent form, Las Vegas and Catalans Dragons.
Our fixture against Catalans Dragons represents an opportunity for us start to string together a much needed series of wins which can set the platform for a successful second half of the season and conclusion to it.
There is no doubt that there is still everything to play for but there is equally no doubt that much improved and more consistent performances are necessary and with immediacy. We have been the author of our own downfall too often in recent weeks and it is our collective responsibility to get that right. And now.
I am sympathetic to the hurt and deep frustration which our fans our presently experiencing. We share that. It is the responsibility of the club as a collective, and starting with me, both to strive for improvement this season and to strengthen the squad for next. Results are ultimately all important and the table does not lie. It is presently not good enough for a club of our standing and ambition. Real improvement must be sought and made by all.
Congratulations to Hull KR and Leeds in forming a Yorkshire based Super League representation in Vegas 2026. We appreciated the opportunity to review and participate in the selection process this time around. Clearly Super League clubs are likely to be invited to participate by the NRL in 2027 and 2028 and the door remains open to us.
Welcome to Catalans Dragons for our return 2025 fixture. They are always a physical and demanding opponent and we expect a very stern test yet again tonight. That is exactly what we need, and it is exactly what we need to overcome, at this moment in time.
There remains continuing public dialogue as to whether Catalans Dragons constitute a worthwhile member of Super League. To me the answer is very simple: they have put an unparalleled investment and management effort into building a critical bridgehead for French rugby league in each of the last twenty seasons. It is quite simply immoral and unacceptable to ignore that. We should be looking to consolidate it and build upon it going forward, not detract from it. They are certainly always very welcome in St Helens.
Enjoy the game and enjoy your evening at The Totally Wicked Stadium.
