Bradford could be boosted by the return of Glenn Morrison for Friday's Super League play-off with Wigan in Widnes.
The forward was expected to be out for the season with a quad injury but has recovered ahead of schedule.
Michael Platt and Paul Deacon are also in the 19-man squad as the Bulls look to make amends for their 31-30 defeat to Wigan in last year's play-offs.
Second rower Gareth Hock is back for Wigan after a five-games ban, but loose forward Sean O'Loughlin is injured.
Prop Paul Prescott is rated as 50-50 for the Warriors so Eamon O'Carroll is included in Brian Noble's squad.
The loser of the match, being played at Widnes' Stobart Stadium, will be eliminated from the competition.
Bradford suffered that fate when the two teams met in the first round of play-off games last season.
Leading 30-6, they were eventually beaten 31-30 as Wigan scored 25 points in the last 25 minutes in a dramatic tie at Odsal.
"It was pretty tough to lose a 24-point advantage and the way we lost it at the end was especially disappointing," admitted Bradford's veteran prop Joe Vagana, who is retiring at the end of the season.
We were well beaten but we got a couple of knock-ons and the rugby gods shone on us
Wigan coach Brian Noble
"But that was last year and it's gone now. We've got a new bunch of players.
"The real excitement starts. It's knockout football and we only have a few more games to get to Old Trafford. Wigan are a tough team but we're going there to win."
Wigan coach Brian Noble was full of sympathy for his old club a year ago and still admits they were probably hard done by.
"We were well beaten but we got a couple of knock-ons and the rugby gods shone on us," he said.
Wigan made the most of their good fortune, going on to win at Hull in the semi-finals before going down to eventual winners Leeds in the final eliminator.
Thursday, 11 September 2008
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Wigan players shocked by ground switch.
Australian stand-off Trent Barrett claimed the Wigan Warriors players reacted with disbelief when told the club would have to switch their engage Super League play-off tie away from the JJB Stadium.
The Warriors have been prevented from using the stadium on Friday night because Wigan Athletic are at home to Sunderland the following day, and have opted to take on Bradford Bulls at Widnes instead.
Barrett, Wigan’s acting captain in the absence of Sean O’Loughlin, revealed the players were given a say in the final decision and opted against Warrington’s Halliwell Jones Stadium, which was the venue for their shock Challenge Cup semi-final defeat by Catalans Dragons in 2007.“There was a bit of disbelief because we didn’t even think about it,” Barrett told a press conference at Wigan’s training base. “We were disappointed because it’s something we’ve worked pretty hard to get. We’ve come through some pretty rough times this year, so to finish fourth was a good effort.“But we can’t let it affect us. If things fall for us, we might get back there next week.”
Wigan, who would have use of the JJB Stadium for the elimination semi-final on Saturday week if results go their way this weekend, are laying on free transport for their fans to Widnes and coach Brian Noble insists his team will not be distracted by the enforced change of venue.“We’ve got to make the Halton Stadium like the JJB,” he said. “We’ve got a field to play on and a team that is ready to play and that is our focus.”
Bradford’s chances of avenging their agonising 31-30 defeat in the opening round of the play-offs a year ago have been improved by the fixture switch but coach Steve McNamara is playing down the significance.“It’s a patch of grass at the end of the day,” said McNamara. “I’m sure they’ll be disappointed not to be able to stage it at their home ground but, once they get on the field, it will make no difference whatsoever.”
Both teams will have players returning from suspension for the knockout tie, with second-rower Gareth Hock available to Wigan after a five-match absence and full-back Michael Platt free to make his comeback from a three-game ban.
Bulls skipper Paul Deacon is expected to recover from knee and head injuries that forced his early withdrawal from last Saturday’s game at Castleford but Wigan prop Paul Prescott is rated as 50-50 to recover in time from a back injury
The Warriors have been prevented from using the stadium on Friday night because Wigan Athletic are at home to Sunderland the following day, and have opted to take on Bradford Bulls at Widnes instead.
Barrett, Wigan’s acting captain in the absence of Sean O’Loughlin, revealed the players were given a say in the final decision and opted against Warrington’s Halliwell Jones Stadium, which was the venue for their shock Challenge Cup semi-final defeat by Catalans Dragons in 2007.“There was a bit of disbelief because we didn’t even think about it,” Barrett told a press conference at Wigan’s training base. “We were disappointed because it’s something we’ve worked pretty hard to get. We’ve come through some pretty rough times this year, so to finish fourth was a good effort.“But we can’t let it affect us. If things fall for us, we might get back there next week.”
Wigan, who would have use of the JJB Stadium for the elimination semi-final on Saturday week if results go their way this weekend, are laying on free transport for their fans to Widnes and coach Brian Noble insists his team will not be distracted by the enforced change of venue.“We’ve got to make the Halton Stadium like the JJB,” he said. “We’ve got a field to play on and a team that is ready to play and that is our focus.”
Bradford’s chances of avenging their agonising 31-30 defeat in the opening round of the play-offs a year ago have been improved by the fixture switch but coach Steve McNamara is playing down the significance.“It’s a patch of grass at the end of the day,” said McNamara. “I’m sure they’ll be disappointed not to be able to stage it at their home ground but, once they get on the field, it will make no difference whatsoever.”
Both teams will have players returning from suspension for the knockout tie, with second-rower Gareth Hock available to Wigan after a five-match absence and full-back Michael Platt free to make his comeback from a three-game ban.
Bulls skipper Paul Deacon is expected to recover from knee and head injuries that forced his early withdrawal from last Saturday’s game at Castleford but Wigan prop Paul Prescott is rated as 50-50 to recover in time from a back injury
Tuesday, 9 September 2008
England team news.
ENGLAND coach Tony Smith yesterday insisted his World Cup plans remain open after he named an initial 13-man train-on squad for the 10-nation tournament which kicks off in Australia next month.
The 13 are drawn from the five English Super League clubs that failed to make the play-offs and will be joined by increasing numbers of other players as the top six clubs are eliminated.
Many of the names announced yesterday are unlikely to be on the plane to Australia on Wednesday October 15 and will have to settle for selection for the warm-up match against Wales at Doncaster five days earlier.
However Smith, who will take 24 players with him Down Under, said every player will be in contention for the trip before he decides the make up of his final squad on October 7.
"A lot can happen between now and the end of the season and I want to cover as many bases as possible," said Smith.
"All the players who come into the train-on squad should be aware that our plans are fluid until after the grand final."
None of the players involved in the Super League grand final on Saturday October 4 will be involved in the international against Wales and Smith is clearly hedging his bets between now and then."We can't finalise anything until after the grand final," said Smith. "For example, if Leeds and St Helens reach Old Trafford you would expect quite a few people who are going to be going to Australia to be involved."In that case, I have to have people in the squad who can do the job for us against Wales. Some of the players who play against Wales will do so knowing they aren't in the final squad because that's how it has to be.
"If Leeds or St Helens don't make the grand final I don't need as many players to fill those positions against Wales. "All the players will find out whether they're going to the World Cup in the days after the grand final, by which point we will have time to assess the fitness of everyone in the squad."There is no point in telling a player he's not going and then have to call him in because someone has been injured playing in the grand final."This is the only way I can do it and disappoint as few people as possible."
Smith's initial squad features three Huddersfield Giants players, two each from Castleford, Hull and Hull Kingston Rovers, including Peter Fox, the winger who made a try-scoring debut in the mid-season Test against France in Toulouse, and Wakefield centre Ryan Atkins.As expected, Castleford youngsters Joe Westerman and Michael Shenton are included as are Hull duo Garreth Carvell and Gareth Raynor while prop Darrell Griffin and wingers Martin Aspinwall and Hodgson comprise the Huddersfield contingent.England's coach has recognised the strides made in the capital by calling up Londoners Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook and Tony Clubb, who are joined by their Cumbrian-born captain Rob Purdham.Smith, the proud owner of a new UK Passport following his success in securing British citizenship, said he had faced a series of difficult decisions in drawing up his first squad, a scenario he expects to face repeatedly over the coming weeks."I didn't want to select people willy-nilly and the players I have picked are in there based on their recent form and their form over the season," said Smith."I could have gone for more but I think that with the people we will bring in through the finals series we will end up with a very competitive squad."I don't want to be too generous in selecting too big a squad. There should be a lot of prestige for players to be involved with England, regardless of whether they make the World Cup squad or not. There are probably a few boys who are disappointed that they're not in the squad but that's how it should be."
England train-on squad
Martin Aspinwall (Huddersfield), Ryan Atkins (Wakefield), Shaun Briscoe (Hull KR), Garreth Carvell (Hull), Tony Clubb (Harlequins), Peter Fox (Hull KR), Darrell Griffin (Huddersfield), David Hodgson (Huddersfield), Rob Purdham (Harlequins), Gareth Raynor (Hull), Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook (Harlequins), Michael Shenton (Castleford), Joe Westerman (Castleford).
The 13 are drawn from the five English Super League clubs that failed to make the play-offs and will be joined by increasing numbers of other players as the top six clubs are eliminated.
Many of the names announced yesterday are unlikely to be on the plane to Australia on Wednesday October 15 and will have to settle for selection for the warm-up match against Wales at Doncaster five days earlier.
However Smith, who will take 24 players with him Down Under, said every player will be in contention for the trip before he decides the make up of his final squad on October 7.
"A lot can happen between now and the end of the season and I want to cover as many bases as possible," said Smith.
"All the players who come into the train-on squad should be aware that our plans are fluid until after the grand final."
None of the players involved in the Super League grand final on Saturday October 4 will be involved in the international against Wales and Smith is clearly hedging his bets between now and then."We can't finalise anything until after the grand final," said Smith. "For example, if Leeds and St Helens reach Old Trafford you would expect quite a few people who are going to be going to Australia to be involved."In that case, I have to have people in the squad who can do the job for us against Wales. Some of the players who play against Wales will do so knowing they aren't in the final squad because that's how it has to be.
"If Leeds or St Helens don't make the grand final I don't need as many players to fill those positions against Wales. "All the players will find out whether they're going to the World Cup in the days after the grand final, by which point we will have time to assess the fitness of everyone in the squad."There is no point in telling a player he's not going and then have to call him in because someone has been injured playing in the grand final."This is the only way I can do it and disappoint as few people as possible."
Smith's initial squad features three Huddersfield Giants players, two each from Castleford, Hull and Hull Kingston Rovers, including Peter Fox, the winger who made a try-scoring debut in the mid-season Test against France in Toulouse, and Wakefield centre Ryan Atkins.As expected, Castleford youngsters Joe Westerman and Michael Shenton are included as are Hull duo Garreth Carvell and Gareth Raynor while prop Darrell Griffin and wingers Martin Aspinwall and Hodgson comprise the Huddersfield contingent.England's coach has recognised the strides made in the capital by calling up Londoners Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook and Tony Clubb, who are joined by their Cumbrian-born captain Rob Purdham.Smith, the proud owner of a new UK Passport following his success in securing British citizenship, said he had faced a series of difficult decisions in drawing up his first squad, a scenario he expects to face repeatedly over the coming weeks."I didn't want to select people willy-nilly and the players I have picked are in there based on their recent form and their form over the season," said Smith."I could have gone for more but I think that with the people we will bring in through the finals series we will end up with a very competitive squad."I don't want to be too generous in selecting too big a squad. There should be a lot of prestige for players to be involved with England, regardless of whether they make the World Cup squad or not. There are probably a few boys who are disappointed that they're not in the squad but that's how it should be."
England train-on squad
Martin Aspinwall (Huddersfield), Ryan Atkins (Wakefield), Shaun Briscoe (Hull KR), Garreth Carvell (Hull), Tony Clubb (Harlequins), Peter Fox (Hull KR), Darrell Griffin (Huddersfield), David Hodgson (Huddersfield), Rob Purdham (Harlequins), Gareth Raynor (Hull), Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook (Harlequins), Michael Shenton (Castleford), Joe Westerman (Castleford).
Wigan - Bradford tie moved to Widnes
Wigan have switched their home engage Super League elimination play-off against Bradford on Friday night to the Stobart Stadium in Widnes.
The Warriors, who earned a home tie after claiming fourth place in the table at the end of the regular season, have been told they cannot use the JJB Stadium because Wigan Athletic are at home to Sunderland on Saturday. In order to offset the disappointment for their fans, Wigan are laying on free coach travel to Widnes.
Chairman Ian Lenagan said: "When Brian Noble and I met with the team this morning to explain the situation, their response made us determined to do all we could to encourage the Wigan fans to travel in numbers and to show the spirit in adversity of the Wigan fans and players together.
"This special offer will help in some way to recreate the JJB Stadium for the night."
Wigan explored the possibility of switching the tie to Thursday or Sunday but were told the game must be played on Friday due to Sky TV commitments and the Rugby Football League ruled out the possibility of moving it to Bradford because it would compromise the integrity of the competition.
The Warriors, who earned a home tie after claiming fourth place in the table at the end of the regular season, have been told they cannot use the JJB Stadium because Wigan Athletic are at home to Sunderland on Saturday. In order to offset the disappointment for their fans, Wigan are laying on free coach travel to Widnes.
Chairman Ian Lenagan said: "When Brian Noble and I met with the team this morning to explain the situation, their response made us determined to do all we could to encourage the Wigan fans to travel in numbers and to show the spirit in adversity of the Wigan fans and players together.
"This special offer will help in some way to recreate the JJB Stadium for the night."
Wigan explored the possibility of switching the tie to Thursday or Sunday but were told the game must be played on Friday due to Sky TV commitments and the Rugby Football League ruled out the possibility of moving it to Bradford because it would compromise the integrity of the competition.
James Graham gets the top award.
Saints’ England forward James Graham has been named the Rugby League Writers' Association's Player of the Year for 2008.
The 22-year-old prop forward, who was the engage Super League's young player of the year in 2006, has come of age this year with a string of impressive performances for his club, particularly in the absence through injury of regular front rowers Jason Cayless and Nick Fozzard.
Graham beat off competition from two of his St Helens team-mates, Leon Pryce and Keiron Cunningham to win the poll, with Leeds scrum-half Rob Burrow also in contention and Catalans duo Clint Greenshields and Thomas Bosc gaining votes to reflect the progress of the French club.
"It's fantastic news for James," said Daniel Anderson. "I think it's been a break-out season for the young front rower. He's 23 on Wednesday and for a 22-year-old to do what he's done this year is exceptional. He's been tremendous for us.
"He's always been a fairly strong character with the capability of being a leader and he's shown that this year."
Graham is the 13th winner of the RLWA award, which was first presented in 1996.
Previous winners (in reverse order) have been: Trent Barrett (Wigan), Paul Wellens (St Helens), Jamie Lyon (St Helens), Danny McGuire (Leeds), Jamie Peacock (Bradford), Adrian Lam (Wigan), Paul Sculthorpe (St Helens), Tommy Martyn (St Helens), Iestyn Harris (Leeds, twice), Andy Farrell (Wigan) and Apollo Perelini (St Helens).
Graham will receive his award at the RLWA annual dinner and presentation evening in Haydock next Monday.
The 22-year-old prop forward, who was the engage Super League's young player of the year in 2006, has come of age this year with a string of impressive performances for his club, particularly in the absence through injury of regular front rowers Jason Cayless and Nick Fozzard.
Graham beat off competition from two of his St Helens team-mates, Leon Pryce and Keiron Cunningham to win the poll, with Leeds scrum-half Rob Burrow also in contention and Catalans duo Clint Greenshields and Thomas Bosc gaining votes to reflect the progress of the French club.
"It's fantastic news for James," said Daniel Anderson. "I think it's been a break-out season for the young front rower. He's 23 on Wednesday and for a 22-year-old to do what he's done this year is exceptional. He's been tremendous for us.
"He's always been a fairly strong character with the capability of being a leader and he's shown that this year."
Graham is the 13th winner of the RLWA award, which was first presented in 1996.
Previous winners (in reverse order) have been: Trent Barrett (Wigan), Paul Wellens (St Helens), Jamie Lyon (St Helens), Danny McGuire (Leeds), Jamie Peacock (Bradford), Adrian Lam (Wigan), Paul Sculthorpe (St Helens), Tommy Martyn (St Helens), Iestyn Harris (Leeds, twice), Andy Farrell (Wigan) and Apollo Perelini (St Helens).
Graham will receive his award at the RLWA annual dinner and presentation evening in Haydock next Monday.
Saturday, 6 September 2008
Saints happy with a draw.
Wigan saved their best until last to bring St Helens' winning run to an end - but it was not enough to deny their arch rivals a fourth successive table-topping finish to the engage Super League season.
A 16-16 draw dashed Saints' bid for a club record 22nd successive victory but it was enough to keep them a point ahead of defending champions Leeds, who rounded off the regular season with a 30-12 win at Wakefield.
Fresh from their Challenge Cup final success, St Helens captain Keiron Cunningham lifted a second trophy in seven days and they remain favourites to complete a clean sweep in next month's Grand Final.
Saints, who fly out to Madrid tomorrow for a three-day training break, will have home advantage against the Rhinos in the qualifying semi-final in a fortnight's time.
Coach Daniel Anderson, who is being linked with a move to Penrith Panthers for next season, described the result as "very satisfying" after his side came from 12-0 down to claim the point they needed.
Wigan had been in sight of their first win at Knowsley Road for five years after taking advantage of the sin-binning of St Helens prop James Graham to score two tries in his absence through George Carmont and Joel Tomkins.
Graham took exception to an off-the-ball challenge from Wigan substitute Iafeta Paleaaesina and was sin-binned by referee Ashley Klein for retaliation, even though Saints were given the penalty.
A brace of tries from centre Matt Gidley and another from Ade Gardner, who finished the regular season with a table-topping 26 tries, enabled Saints to take the lead for the first time after 56 minutes but Wigan's Pat Richards tied the scores with a 40-metre penalty.
Richards also declined another penalty kick at goal from just inside his own half and narrowly missed with a drop-goal attempt.
"It was a good battle in horrible conditions," said Anderson. "The players put in a very good effort to claw back a 12-0 deficit. I got plenty from it.
"I thought it was a great game, very tasty from the start to the finish with plenty of controversy, which is always good for a Wigan-Saints game, and a lot of momentum changes."
Wigan's draw means they avoid having to travel to Perpignan to play Catalans Dragons in next weekend's play-offs and they could earn a home tie against Warrington or Bradford, depending on the outcome of tonight's matches.
After watching his side concede 149 points in the three earlier derbies this season, Warriors coach Brian Noble was jubilant over last night's result.
"There were plenty of things we did well and the really pleasing thing is the players are bubbly and ebullient," he said.
Leeds will also head into the play-offs in buoyant mood after finishing the regular season with a fourth successive win.
The champions were given a stiff examination by the Wildcats on a wet night at Belle Vue, securing victory only after skipper Kevin Sinfield broke a 12-12 deadlock in the final quarter and Ali Lauitiiti grabbed a late double.
Rhinos coach Brian McClennan said: "They really tested us. It was a good hit-out for us because we really had to go to the wire, so I'm really pleased."
A 16-16 draw dashed Saints' bid for a club record 22nd successive victory but it was enough to keep them a point ahead of defending champions Leeds, who rounded off the regular season with a 30-12 win at Wakefield.
Fresh from their Challenge Cup final success, St Helens captain Keiron Cunningham lifted a second trophy in seven days and they remain favourites to complete a clean sweep in next month's Grand Final.
Saints, who fly out to Madrid tomorrow for a three-day training break, will have home advantage against the Rhinos in the qualifying semi-final in a fortnight's time.
Coach Daniel Anderson, who is being linked with a move to Penrith Panthers for next season, described the result as "very satisfying" after his side came from 12-0 down to claim the point they needed.
Wigan had been in sight of their first win at Knowsley Road for five years after taking advantage of the sin-binning of St Helens prop James Graham to score two tries in his absence through George Carmont and Joel Tomkins.
Graham took exception to an off-the-ball challenge from Wigan substitute Iafeta Paleaaesina and was sin-binned by referee Ashley Klein for retaliation, even though Saints were given the penalty.
A brace of tries from centre Matt Gidley and another from Ade Gardner, who finished the regular season with a table-topping 26 tries, enabled Saints to take the lead for the first time after 56 minutes but Wigan's Pat Richards tied the scores with a 40-metre penalty.
Richards also declined another penalty kick at goal from just inside his own half and narrowly missed with a drop-goal attempt.
"It was a good battle in horrible conditions," said Anderson. "The players put in a very good effort to claw back a 12-0 deficit. I got plenty from it.
"I thought it was a great game, very tasty from the start to the finish with plenty of controversy, which is always good for a Wigan-Saints game, and a lot of momentum changes."
Wigan's draw means they avoid having to travel to Perpignan to play Catalans Dragons in next weekend's play-offs and they could earn a home tie against Warrington or Bradford, depending on the outcome of tonight's matches.
After watching his side concede 149 points in the three earlier derbies this season, Warriors coach Brian Noble was jubilant over last night's result.
"There were plenty of things we did well and the really pleasing thing is the players are bubbly and ebullient," he said.
Leeds will also head into the play-offs in buoyant mood after finishing the regular season with a fourth successive win.
The champions were given a stiff examination by the Wildcats on a wet night at Belle Vue, securing victory only after skipper Kevin Sinfield broke a 12-12 deadlock in the final quarter and Ali Lauitiiti grabbed a late double.
Rhinos coach Brian McClennan said: "They really tested us. It was a good hit-out for us because we really had to go to the wire, so I'm really pleased."
Saints keep the top spot.
Double-chasing St Helens came from 12-0 down to draw 16-16 against Wigan on Friday and clinch top spot in the Super League for a fourth year in a row.
Saints, who won the Challenge Cup last weekend, went in front for the first time with Matt Gidley's second try in the 56th minute but Wigan winger Pat Richards levelled the scores with a penalty 10 minutes from the end.
A draw brought Saints' 21-match winning run to an end but the point was enough to enable them to retain the League leaders' trophy.
Leeds took second place with a 30-12 win at Wakefield. A Kevin Sinfield try broke the deadlock and an Ali Lauitiiti double made the win safe.
Saints, who won the Challenge Cup last weekend, went in front for the first time with Matt Gidley's second try in the 56th minute but Wigan winger Pat Richards levelled the scores with a penalty 10 minutes from the end.
A draw brought Saints' 21-match winning run to an end but the point was enough to enable them to retain the League leaders' trophy.
Leeds took second place with a 30-12 win at Wakefield. A Kevin Sinfield try broke the deadlock and an Ali Lauitiiti double made the win safe.
Friday, 5 September 2008
Pryce cleared for World Cup
Leon Pryce has been cleared to play for England at this autumn's World Cup after pleading not guilty to an assault charge at Bradford Magistrates Court today. The case was adjourned until October 16, three days after the England squad fly out to Australia, but Pryce and his former Bradford team-mate Stuart Reardon were told they will not need to appear on that date, and their bail conditions do not include any restrictions on overseas travel.
Pryce and Reardon have been charged with using violence to gain entry to a property in July, where Reardon is charged with assaulting his wife, and Pryce with battery, an initial charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Damon O'Brien having been downgraded. They have pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
Wigan's captain Sean O'Loughlin has been ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover from the shoulder injury he suffered in May. Wigan had been hoping that O'Loughlin would return in Friday's derby at St Helens, where they must win to have any chance of finishing fourth in the Super League table. But the Warriors' coach, Brian Noble, revealed today that a further scan has shown that the double fracture in his shoulder blade has yet to heal fully, requiring him to rest for at least four weeks before resuming training.
Pryce has been included in Saints' 19-man squad, with Nick Fozzard expected to replace Paul Sculthorpe in the only change from the team who beat Hull in last Saturday's Challenge Cup final at Wembley. Victory would guarantee St Helens the League Leaders' Shield for the fourth consecutive season, and home advantage against Leeds in the first round of the grand final play-offs on Friday week. In the unlikely and almost unimaginable event that Saints lose, Leeds could pinch top spot with a convincing win at Wakefield in Friday's other game. They have Scott Donald, Ryan Bailey and Jamie Jones-Buchanan returning from injury and also include Nick Scruton, a prop whose move to Bradford next season was confirmed today.
Pryce and Reardon have been charged with using violence to gain entry to a property in July, where Reardon is charged with assaulting his wife, and Pryce with battery, an initial charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Damon O'Brien having been downgraded. They have pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
Wigan's captain Sean O'Loughlin has been ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover from the shoulder injury he suffered in May. Wigan had been hoping that O'Loughlin would return in Friday's derby at St Helens, where they must win to have any chance of finishing fourth in the Super League table. But the Warriors' coach, Brian Noble, revealed today that a further scan has shown that the double fracture in his shoulder blade has yet to heal fully, requiring him to rest for at least four weeks before resuming training.
Pryce has been included in Saints' 19-man squad, with Nick Fozzard expected to replace Paul Sculthorpe in the only change from the team who beat Hull in last Saturday's Challenge Cup final at Wembley. Victory would guarantee St Helens the League Leaders' Shield for the fourth consecutive season, and home advantage against Leeds in the first round of the grand final play-offs on Friday week. In the unlikely and almost unimaginable event that Saints lose, Leeds could pinch top spot with a convincing win at Wakefield in Friday's other game. They have Scott Donald, Ryan Bailey and Jamie Jones-Buchanan returning from injury and also include Nick Scruton, a prop whose move to Bradford next season was confirmed today.
Will Wigan and Leeds spoil the Saints party
Wigan will be hoping to ruin the homecoming of their arch rivals when they wind up their engage Super League campaign at Challenge Cup winners St Helens tonight.
Fresh from their Wembley triumph, Daniel Anderson's men will be presented with their second trophy in seven days - the League leaders' shield - if they extend their club record winning run to 22 matches.
If Saints slip up, Leeds can snatch top spot with a big win over Wakefield at Belle Vue in a match brought forward from Sunday to avoid either team gaining an advantage.
"It would be good to finish with a win," said outgoing coach Anderson, who has guided Saints to a first-place finish in each of his four seasons in charge
"We'd like to continue our form and keep winning.
"Spirit and morale in the camp is high and there is no reason for us to give anything away. We'd like to make it hard for Wigan."
Wigan still have an outside chance of securing fourth place - and a home tie in the play-offs - but they could also finish as low as sixth if they lose and both Warrington and Bradford win their final league games tomorrow.
The Warriors pulled off a 20-12 win over Saints in the last match of last season to clinch their play-off spot but have conceded 149 points in the three derbies since then and it is five years since their last win at Knowsley Road.
"They've not probably have played as well as they'd like to but sometimes that can be put down to the quality of the opposition and how well they let you play," Anderson added.
"I don't think we've played badly against them at all."
Leeds go to Belle Vue with virtually a full-strength side, with winger Scott Donald and forwards Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Ryan Bailey and Ian Kirke all returning from injury, as they look to make it four wins in a row.
Rhinos coach Brian McClennan said: "Everyone has come back into training and they are really looking forward to the game.
"We really feel like we have been making good progress in recent weeks and we are looking for a good performance at Wakefield.
"The team are in good shape, they are eager and fresh and want to get out there and play. We are excited that we are improving and it is good to have some troops back on board this week."
Scotland's Australian-born international Duncan MacGillivray will captain Wakefield on his final appearance in Super League ahead of his retirement at the end of the World Cup.
Fresh from their Wembley triumph, Daniel Anderson's men will be presented with their second trophy in seven days - the League leaders' shield - if they extend their club record winning run to 22 matches.
If Saints slip up, Leeds can snatch top spot with a big win over Wakefield at Belle Vue in a match brought forward from Sunday to avoid either team gaining an advantage.
"It would be good to finish with a win," said outgoing coach Anderson, who has guided Saints to a first-place finish in each of his four seasons in charge
"We'd like to continue our form and keep winning.
"Spirit and morale in the camp is high and there is no reason for us to give anything away. We'd like to make it hard for Wigan."
Wigan still have an outside chance of securing fourth place - and a home tie in the play-offs - but they could also finish as low as sixth if they lose and both Warrington and Bradford win their final league games tomorrow.
The Warriors pulled off a 20-12 win over Saints in the last match of last season to clinch their play-off spot but have conceded 149 points in the three derbies since then and it is five years since their last win at Knowsley Road.
"They've not probably have played as well as they'd like to but sometimes that can be put down to the quality of the opposition and how well they let you play," Anderson added.
"I don't think we've played badly against them at all."
Leeds go to Belle Vue with virtually a full-strength side, with winger Scott Donald and forwards Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Ryan Bailey and Ian Kirke all returning from injury, as they look to make it four wins in a row.
Rhinos coach Brian McClennan said: "Everyone has come back into training and they are really looking forward to the game.
"We really feel like we have been making good progress in recent weeks and we are looking for a good performance at Wakefield.
"The team are in good shape, they are eager and fresh and want to get out there and play. We are excited that we are improving and it is good to have some troops back on board this week."
Scotland's Australian-born international Duncan MacGillivray will captain Wakefield on his final appearance in Super League ahead of his retirement at the end of the World Cup.
Thursday, 4 September 2008
Bradford sign Scruton
Bradford Bulls have signed Leeds prop Nick Scruton on a three-year contract and he will join the Super League club from next season.
England international Scruton, 23, has made 96 appearances for the Rhinos, including 25 in the current campaign.
"Nick is young, English and has got a great deal of ambition whilst he still has plenty of improvement in him," said Bradford coach Steve McNamara.
"Plus, he is tough and fit and a very vocal player."
McNamara added: "He's someone who bases his game on his sheer love and enthusiasm for the sport and he is a great addition."
England international Scruton, 23, has made 96 appearances for the Rhinos, including 25 in the current campaign.
"Nick is young, English and has got a great deal of ambition whilst he still has plenty of improvement in him," said Bradford coach Steve McNamara.
"Plus, he is tough and fit and a very vocal player."
McNamara added: "He's someone who bases his game on his sheer love and enthusiasm for the sport and he is a great addition."
New deal for Wigan players.
Wigan's Richard Mathers has extended his stay at the Super League club.
The full-back joined Wigan in November 2007, signing a three-year deal with the 2009 and 2010 seasons subject to him completing a set number of games.
Although the former Leeds player, 24, did not achieve that goal, he was given an extension for 2009, with an option in Wigan's favour for 2010.
Harrison Hansen, Lee Mossop, Cameron Phelps and George Carmont are also extending their stay at the JJB.
Phelps has signed for 2009 with a further year in Wigan's favour, Mossop has committed for 2009 with a further year option for Wigan and Hansen has signed until the end of 2011.
Carmont played enough games to bring the second year of his conditional two-year contract into play.
Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: "We are pleased we have secured the futures of these five players all of whom are important members of the future Wigan squad."
The full-back joined Wigan in November 2007, signing a three-year deal with the 2009 and 2010 seasons subject to him completing a set number of games.
Although the former Leeds player, 24, did not achieve that goal, he was given an extension for 2009, with an option in Wigan's favour for 2010.
Harrison Hansen, Lee Mossop, Cameron Phelps and George Carmont are also extending their stay at the JJB.
Phelps has signed for 2009 with a further year in Wigan's favour, Mossop has committed for 2009 with a further year option for Wigan and Hansen has signed until the end of 2011.
Carmont played enough games to bring the second year of his conditional two-year contract into play.
Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: "We are pleased we have secured the futures of these five players all of whom are important members of the future Wigan squad."
Video ref trial at none TV game
The use of a video referee will be trialled at a non-televised match this weekend for the first time.
At present, only matches screened live have replays but cameras will cover the Hull KR v Hull derby on Sunday.
There have been regular calls for a video referee to be available at all games in the interests of fairness.
"We will review the success before deciding whether it is practical to introduce it full-time," said the Rugby Football League's Stuart Cummings.
"For supporters in the crowd it will be like a TV game but without the big screen broadcasting the decision and is similar to what we already do in France for televised Catalans Dragons games."
The only two non-televised Super League matches to have had video referees were at this year's Millennium Magic weekend event in Cardiff.
A normal live television match is covered by 12 cameras but Sunday's trial will feature three - one on the gantry at halfway and one behind each goal.
St Helens coach Daniel Anderson called for the widespread use of replays after his side lost to Huddersfield back in March, while Hull KR coach Justin Morgan joined the debate after the 24-18 Challenge Cup quarter-final defeat by eventual winners St Helens in June.
Rovers had two tries disallowed in the first half that might have been given if the match had been televised, as two of the four ties that weekend were.
"I will live with the decisions but it was a good advert for video referees at all games," said Morgan after the game.
At present, only matches screened live have replays but cameras will cover the Hull KR v Hull derby on Sunday.
There have been regular calls for a video referee to be available at all games in the interests of fairness.
"We will review the success before deciding whether it is practical to introduce it full-time," said the Rugby Football League's Stuart Cummings.
"For supporters in the crowd it will be like a TV game but without the big screen broadcasting the decision and is similar to what we already do in France for televised Catalans Dragons games."
The only two non-televised Super League matches to have had video referees were at this year's Millennium Magic weekend event in Cardiff.
A normal live television match is covered by 12 cameras but Sunday's trial will feature three - one on the gantry at halfway and one behind each goal.
St Helens coach Daniel Anderson called for the widespread use of replays after his side lost to Huddersfield back in March, while Hull KR coach Justin Morgan joined the debate after the 24-18 Challenge Cup quarter-final defeat by eventual winners St Helens in June.
Rovers had two tries disallowed in the first half that might have been given if the match had been televised, as two of the four ties that weekend were.
"I will live with the decisions but it was a good advert for video referees at all games," said Morgan after the game.
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
World Cup schedule.
Rugby League World Cup 2008
After an eight-year absence, the Rugby League World Cup will returns in Australia next month.
Comprising of 10 teams divided into three pools, organisers are hoping to avoid a repeat of the one-sided contests which marred the 2000 tournament.
Australia will be red-hot favourites to win their 10th World Cup, but England and New Zealand will also fancy their chances.
England will kick off proceedings against Papua New Guinea on 25 October in Townsville.
Four weeks later, the 18th and final game of the tournament will see things decided in the final at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Group A: Australia, England, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea
Group B: France, Fiji, Scotland
Group C: Tonga, Ireland, Samoa
RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP 2008 SCHEDULE
25 October:
England v Papua New Guinea
Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville
26 October:
Scotland v France
Canberra Stadium
Australia v New Zealand (preceded by opening ceremony)
Sydney Football Stadium
27 October:
Tonga v Ireland
Parramatta Stadium
31 October:
Samoa v Tonga
CUA Stadium, Penrith
1 November:
Fiji v France
WIN Stadium, Wollongong
New Zealand v Papua New Guinea
Skilled Stadium, Gold Coast
2 November:
Australia v England
Telstra Dome, Melbourne
5 November:
Scotland v Fiji
Bluetongue Stadium, Central Coast
Ireland v Samoa
Parramatta Stadium
8 November:
England v New Zealand
Energy Australia Stadium, Newcastle
Group B runners-up v Group C runners-up*
Browne Park, Rockhampton(* ranking play-off)
9 November:
Papua New Guinea v Australia
Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville
Group B third-placed team v Group C third-placed team*
CUA Stadium, Penrith(* ranking play-off)
10 November:
Group B winners v Group C winners*
Skilled Stadium, Gold Coast(* semi-final qualifier)
15 November:
Group A runners-up v Group A third-placed team*
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane(* semi-final 1)
16 November:
Group A winners v winners of semi-final qualifier*
Sydney Football Stadium(* semi-final 2)
22 November:
Winners of semi-final 1 v winners of semi-final 2*
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane(* final)
After an eight-year absence, the Rugby League World Cup will returns in Australia next month.
Comprising of 10 teams divided into three pools, organisers are hoping to avoid a repeat of the one-sided contests which marred the 2000 tournament.
Australia will be red-hot favourites to win their 10th World Cup, but England and New Zealand will also fancy their chances.
England will kick off proceedings against Papua New Guinea on 25 October in Townsville.
Four weeks later, the 18th and final game of the tournament will see things decided in the final at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Group A: Australia, England, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea
Group B: France, Fiji, Scotland
Group C: Tonga, Ireland, Samoa
RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP 2008 SCHEDULE
25 October:
England v Papua New Guinea
Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville
26 October:
Scotland v France
Canberra Stadium
Australia v New Zealand (preceded by opening ceremony)
Sydney Football Stadium
27 October:
Tonga v Ireland
Parramatta Stadium
31 October:
Samoa v Tonga
CUA Stadium, Penrith
1 November:
Fiji v France
WIN Stadium, Wollongong
New Zealand v Papua New Guinea
Skilled Stadium, Gold Coast
2 November:
Australia v England
Telstra Dome, Melbourne
5 November:
Scotland v Fiji
Bluetongue Stadium, Central Coast
Ireland v Samoa
Parramatta Stadium
8 November:
England v New Zealand
Energy Australia Stadium, Newcastle
Group B runners-up v Group C runners-up*
Browne Park, Rockhampton(* ranking play-off)
9 November:
Papua New Guinea v Australia
Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville
Group B third-placed team v Group C third-placed team*
CUA Stadium, Penrith(* ranking play-off)
10 November:
Group B winners v Group C winners*
Skilled Stadium, Gold Coast(* semi-final qualifier)
15 November:
Group A runners-up v Group A third-placed team*
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane(* semi-final 1)
16 November:
Group A winners v winners of semi-final qualifier*
Sydney Football Stadium(* semi-final 2)
22 November:
Winners of semi-final 1 v winners of semi-final 2*
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane(* final)
Bennett forced to retire.
St Helens forward Mike Bennett has announced he will retire from rugby league at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old has made 160 appearances and scored 16 tries in his 13-year spell at Saints.
Bennett sustained a shoulder injury in the 16-8 win at Hull in May but despite regaining full fitness has decided to retire to ensure his quality of life.
"Due to my recent injury and after great thought I have decided to retire from playing rugby league," he said.
"Although I have received offers to continue playing, the specialist cannot guarantee a similar injury would not occur again.
"After already injuring the shoulder on previous occasions I don't want to get to the stage where the shoulder is hampering my everyday life.
Bennett, who was signed from Golbourne Parkside in 1995, has enjoyed a distinguished career with Saints.
He was a try scorer in the 2002 Grand Final victory over Bradford Bulls and scored the last four-pointer in the 2007 Challenge Cup Semi-Final against the same team.
He has also won Grand Final honours in 2002 and 2006, the World Club Challenge in 2007 and the Challenge Cup in 2007.
Bennett, who will continue to work for Saints as the club's ambassador, says he is looking forward to his testimonial year in 2010 and has paid tribute to the Knowsley Road faithful.
"Above all, I would like to thank the fans for their superb support over the years," he added.
The 28-year-old has made 160 appearances and scored 16 tries in his 13-year spell at Saints.
Bennett sustained a shoulder injury in the 16-8 win at Hull in May but despite regaining full fitness has decided to retire to ensure his quality of life.
"Due to my recent injury and after great thought I have decided to retire from playing rugby league," he said.
"Although I have received offers to continue playing, the specialist cannot guarantee a similar injury would not occur again.
"After already injuring the shoulder on previous occasions I don't want to get to the stage where the shoulder is hampering my everyday life.
Bennett, who was signed from Golbourne Parkside in 1995, has enjoyed a distinguished career with Saints.
He was a try scorer in the 2002 Grand Final victory over Bradford Bulls and scored the last four-pointer in the 2007 Challenge Cup Semi-Final against the same team.
He has also won Grand Final honours in 2002 and 2006, the World Club Challenge in 2007 and the Challenge Cup in 2007.
Bennett, who will continue to work for Saints as the club's ambassador, says he is looking forward to his testimonial year in 2010 and has paid tribute to the Knowsley Road faithful.
"Above all, I would like to thank the fans for their superb support over the years," he added.
Sunday, 31 August 2008
Saints looking for the double
Challenge Cup winners St Helens are already looking towards the double after once again returning in triumph from Wembley.
Daniel Anderson's men made a heroes' return to Knowsley Road with the famous trophy they lifted for a 12th time thanks to a 28-16 win over Hull at Wembley ,but insisted they have unfinished business.
Saints did the double in 2006 but were denied a repeat league and cup double by Leeds in last year's Grand Final. They are determined to make amends this time.
They meet arch rivals Wigan at Knowsley Road on Friday in their final game of the regular season, needing to avoid defeat in order to top the table for a third successive year.
"Daniel promised the guys a few weeks ago that, if we took care of the job, we would have a couple of days in Madrid to relax and do a bit of training," said full-back Paul Wellens, man of the match in Saints' 21st successive win.
"We wanted to do something a little bit different to last year and recharge the batteries because this winning streak has taken a lot out of the guys and we don't want to go into the play-offs like we did last year, with pretty much no energy.
"We've delivered and he's stuck to his promise. We are obviously going to enjoy this but we realise the importance of what is coming up.
"So we are training Monday and preparing for a very tough game against Wigan."
Captain Keiron Cunningham, who appeared in his eighth Challenge Cup final, said: "This week was probably the most nervous I've been in my career. I can't really explain but it's probably the weight of expectation.
"You are expected to win finals because you play for Saints. I wouldn't say there was any jubilation at the end, more relief that we actually won the thing.
"We lost the last final we were in and it seemed like it was going that way for a little bit but we got there in the end."
Stand-off Leon Pryce scored his first try in six Cup final appearances, three of which were with Bradford, and added: "I'm going to savour that moment for the rest of my life," he said. "It's what you work so hard for.
"This is probably my favourite final. To beat Leeds (with Bradford) was a big game but winning three Challenge Cup finals in a row is something that may never happen again with the strength of the competition.
"It's not like back in Wigan's days when they were the best team by a mile so we're going to savour it."
Daniel Anderson's men made a heroes' return to Knowsley Road with the famous trophy they lifted for a 12th time thanks to a 28-16 win over Hull at Wembley ,but insisted they have unfinished business.
Saints did the double in 2006 but were denied a repeat league and cup double by Leeds in last year's Grand Final. They are determined to make amends this time.
They meet arch rivals Wigan at Knowsley Road on Friday in their final game of the regular season, needing to avoid defeat in order to top the table for a third successive year.
"Daniel promised the guys a few weeks ago that, if we took care of the job, we would have a couple of days in Madrid to relax and do a bit of training," said full-back Paul Wellens, man of the match in Saints' 21st successive win.
"We wanted to do something a little bit different to last year and recharge the batteries because this winning streak has taken a lot out of the guys and we don't want to go into the play-offs like we did last year, with pretty much no energy.
"We've delivered and he's stuck to his promise. We are obviously going to enjoy this but we realise the importance of what is coming up.
"So we are training Monday and preparing for a very tough game against Wigan."
Captain Keiron Cunningham, who appeared in his eighth Challenge Cup final, said: "This week was probably the most nervous I've been in my career. I can't really explain but it's probably the weight of expectation.
"You are expected to win finals because you play for Saints. I wouldn't say there was any jubilation at the end, more relief that we actually won the thing.
"We lost the last final we were in and it seemed like it was going that way for a little bit but we got there in the end."
Stand-off Leon Pryce scored his first try in six Cup final appearances, three of which were with Bradford, and added: "I'm going to savour that moment for the rest of my life," he said. "It's what you work so hard for.
"This is probably my favourite final. To beat Leeds (with Bradford) was a big game but winning three Challenge Cup finals in a row is something that may never happen again with the strength of the competition.
"It's not like back in Wigan's days when they were the best team by a mile so we're going to savour it."
Saints rally round Sculthorpe
St Helens players were on Sunday rallying around beleaguered club captain Paul Sculthorpe after his heart-breaking exit from the Challenge Cup final.
The former Great Britain skipper looks certain to have played his last match for the club after suffering a dislocated shoulder less than two minutes into Saturday's 28-16 win over Hull at Wembley.
Sculthorpe was left reeling in agony after making an attempted tackle on Hull full-back Todd Byrne after the first set of six tackles.
He was taken straight to the dressing room, from where he disconsolately watched the rest of the game on television.
Keiron Cunningham, who took over the captaincy of the team for last year's Cup win over Catalans Dragons and led them out on his eighth Cup final appearance, admitted the injury had tarnished Saints' third successive triumph.
He had intended to invite Sculthorpe to join with him in lifting the trophy but the loose forward was too distraught to even collect his medal.
"I waited for everybody to get up there and I was looking for him to come across," said Cunningham.
"I was hoping to lift the trophy with him but, unfortunately, he was in too much pain to be out there.
"You've got to feel for the guy. He missed out on Wembley last year and I genuinely thought he was going to have a big push and today was going to be his day.
"It's one thing after another for him and it's taken some of the gloss off our victory.
"We don't know what Scully is doing next year but it would have been nice for him to have put in a good performance and I was hoping it would have been the Lance Todd for him. It's sad really."
The dislocated shoulder is the latest setback for Sculthorpe, who has been hit
by knee and Achilles injuries over the last three years, and casts serious doubt over his future in the game.
The back-to-back winner of the prestigious Man of Steel award has been told by St Helens that his contract will not be renewed at the end of the season and, after a proposed move to Wakefield fell through, he was hoping a strong finish to the season would spark fresh interest from other clubs.
Now Sculthorpe looks certain to sit out Saints' bid to complete the League and Cup double and could be contemplating retirement.
Full-back Paul Wellens, who won the Lance Todd Trophy as man of the match, said: "We are absolutely gutted for him.
"I know how much the game means to him and how much effort he has put in to getting himself fit over the last few years.
"You wouldn't wish that on anybody and certainly not Scully. It is probably the only thing that has taken a bit of gloss off the occasion.
"He was pretty inconsolable and that's where we come in. We'll help him through these tough times.
"Scully is the type of person who would help anyone with anything and that's probably what makes it harder to take.
"He's a strong person and a strong character and I'm sure it won't be long before he has a smile on his face."
Stand-off Leon Pryce, whose late try wrapped up Saints' victory, said: "We're really disappointed for him. You wouldn't wish that on any player."
The former Great Britain skipper looks certain to have played his last match for the club after suffering a dislocated shoulder less than two minutes into Saturday's 28-16 win over Hull at Wembley.
Sculthorpe was left reeling in agony after making an attempted tackle on Hull full-back Todd Byrne after the first set of six tackles.
He was taken straight to the dressing room, from where he disconsolately watched the rest of the game on television.
Keiron Cunningham, who took over the captaincy of the team for last year's Cup win over Catalans Dragons and led them out on his eighth Cup final appearance, admitted the injury had tarnished Saints' third successive triumph.
He had intended to invite Sculthorpe to join with him in lifting the trophy but the loose forward was too distraught to even collect his medal.
"I waited for everybody to get up there and I was looking for him to come across," said Cunningham.
"I was hoping to lift the trophy with him but, unfortunately, he was in too much pain to be out there.
"You've got to feel for the guy. He missed out on Wembley last year and I genuinely thought he was going to have a big push and today was going to be his day.
"It's one thing after another for him and it's taken some of the gloss off our victory.
"We don't know what Scully is doing next year but it would have been nice for him to have put in a good performance and I was hoping it would have been the Lance Todd for him. It's sad really."
The dislocated shoulder is the latest setback for Sculthorpe, who has been hit
by knee and Achilles injuries over the last three years, and casts serious doubt over his future in the game.
The back-to-back winner of the prestigious Man of Steel award has been told by St Helens that his contract will not be renewed at the end of the season and, after a proposed move to Wakefield fell through, he was hoping a strong finish to the season would spark fresh interest from other clubs.
Now Sculthorpe looks certain to sit out Saints' bid to complete the League and Cup double and could be contemplating retirement.
Full-back Paul Wellens, who won the Lance Todd Trophy as man of the match, said: "We are absolutely gutted for him.
"I know how much the game means to him and how much effort he has put in to getting himself fit over the last few years.
"You wouldn't wish that on anybody and certainly not Scully. It is probably the only thing that has taken a bit of gloss off the occasion.
"He was pretty inconsolable and that's where we come in. We'll help him through these tough times.
"Scully is the type of person who would help anyone with anything and that's probably what makes it harder to take.
"He's a strong person and a strong character and I'm sure it won't be long before he has a smile on his face."
Stand-off Leon Pryce, whose late try wrapped up Saints' victory, said: "We're really disappointed for him. You wouldn't wish that on any player."
Saturday, 30 August 2008
Challenge Cup highlights
Saints edged a pulsating Challenge Cup Final, showing real mettle to come from behind to beat Hull FC 28-16.
In blistering conditions, Saints dominated most of the first half but only had Gidley and a spectacular Francis Meli try to show for their endeavours.
Daniel Anderson’s men used their pace in the backs to clear their lines on numerous occasions and it gave the Saints the vast majority of field position.
But early in the second half, Kirk Yeaman scooted 80 yards to get Hull back in it before he doubled his tally from short range.
Danny Tickle then put Hull ahead with his conversion but Meli got his second to edge Saints ahead once more.
But real grit and determination from Jon Wilkin settled the game when he charged down a kick to race 40 yards.
There was a late score from Gareth Raynor to jangle the nerves, but Saints held out and Leon Pryce scored late on to make it safe.
Good news for Saints before the match was that Maurie Fa’asavalu came through a week of gruelling fitness tests to take a spot on the bench.
Club Captain Paul Sculthorpe started at loose forward with Lee Gilmour as substitute. With Jason Cayless unlucky with injury last weekend, Bryn Hargreaves started at prop alongside skipper Keiron Cunningham – who was playing in his ninth Challenge Cup Final.
Hull have had a torrid time with injuries recently but fielded a strong line up which included Richard Horne on the bench after a long lay off with a neck injury.
Dykes wasn’t fit to play, so all eyes were on Tommy Lee at scrum half.
After a most appropriate minute’s silence for Don Fox, Hull got the game underway, kicking towards a well shaded West Stand.
Scully came off after the first couple of minutes with what looked to be a dislocated shoulder. That meant an early call to arms for Lee Gilmour who moved into the second row. Chris Flannery taking the loose forward berth.
Sean Long then tried out his first bomb but Byrne was equal to the task.
On six minutes Berrigan kicked to the corner but Raynor just couldn’t gather it in.
A minute later, Saints had their first set of six on Hull’s line after a nice play on the last forced a knock on. And from the scrum, the ball went right, into the hands of Gidley and it was 4-0. Long short with the extras.
Francis Meli then knocked a chip through dead on the second attempt to give Hull a drop out.
On 13 minutes, another knock on from Hull was almost punished but Ade Gardner just couldn’t put down over the line.
At the other end Byrne tried his luck with a chip through but it was just too long and always covered by Francis Meli.
Saints then turned defence into pure blistering attack. Hull lost the ball over the Saints’ line, Graham tapped it at the 25 metre mark, then Francis Meli hand off three defenders on his way to a scintillating 80 metre score. Long with the extras.
On Saints next set, Willie Talau broke through with men either side of him – but his inside pass was put to ground.
From there, Hull went right up the other end and almost got through; Saints defence just doing enough.
On the half hour mark, Saints had a try ruled out when Maurie Fa’asavalu’s pass just edged forward to Willie Talau. The move had come after Paul Wellens had picked up a loose ball in his own 10 metre area, then sidestepped his way up the field.
Saints were clearly capable of scoring tries from all over the field but that final slice of luck was just evading a notch up on the scoreboard.
Then, with four minutes to go, Pryce – as he had been threatening to all game – broke through, got it off to Meli who just couldn’t ground as the was going into touch. It was unlucky, but clearly the right decision from the video referee.
Half Time: Hull FC 0 Saints 10
Lee Radford tested out Francis Meli on the first set of the second half, but his kick went just dead.
Tom Briscoe was then hauled down after a break of 50 metres – the young lad coming off worse from the tackle and leaving the field.
But seconds later a loose pass was returned with interest by Yeaman from well inside his own half to make it game on. Tickle with the extras.
Saints needed to heed the warning and step up in what was becoming a real battle of a cup tie.
And on 49 minutes, Leon put up an amazing bomb which Wellens followed up to crunch Byrne in his own in goal area. From the restart, Wellens and James Graham drove Saints to within metres but they couldn’t unlock a steadfast defence.
Minutes later, Saints won the ball in midfield and charged down the middle. On a worked move, Long broke through and touched down, but the video referee was instructed to look for crossing. And, as expected, Klein gave the decision Hull’s way, ruling Chris Flannery had come into the attacking line.
It was another respite for Hull and moments later a Sean Long tackle dislodged the ball as they nearly drew level.
On 61 minutes, Hull chipped through and won a repeat set right on Saints’ line. And after three strong drives, Yeaman popped up again to equalise.
Danny Tickle with the extras to send them ahead.
That lead lasted four minutes. Hull were penalised for lying on and three tackles later it was wide and Meli strolled in for his second. Long with a magnificent conversion from the touchline.
And Jon Wilkin charged down a kick with ten minutes to go and raced 40 yards to put down.
There was a late sting in the tail when Raynor went over in the corner – off a forward pass – giving Saints just five minutes to hold out.
And they did more than that – Pryce going over to hand Saints the cup once again.
Match Summary
Hull FC:
Tries: Yeaman (2)
Goals: Tickle (2 from 3)
Saints:
Tries: Gidley, Meli (2), Wilkin, Pryce
Goals: Long (4 from 5)
Penalties:
Hull FC: 6
Saints: 5
HT (Sts First): 10-0
FT (Sts First): 28-16
REF: Steve Ganson
ATT: 82,821
Teams:
Hull FC:
25. Todd Byrne; 2. Matt Sing, 17. Graeme Horne, 3. Kirk Yeaman, 5. Gareth Raynor; 13. Danny Washbrook, 23. Tommy Lee; 8. Ewan Dowes, 9. Shaun Berrigan, 26. Peter Cusack, 16. Willie Manu, 12. Danny Tickle, 11. Lee Radford.
Subs: 6. Richard Horne, 10. Garreth Carvell, 27. Tom Briscoe. 31. Jamie Thackray.
Saints:
1. Paul Wellens; 2. Ade Gardner, 3. Matt Gidley, 4. Willie Talau, 5. Francis Meli; 6. Leon Pryce, 7. Sean Long; 17. James Graham, 9. Keiron Cunningham, 18. Bryn Hargreaves, 12. Jon Wilkin, 16. Chris Flannery, 13. Paul Sculthorpe.
Subs: 11. Lee Gilmour, 14. James Roby, 21. Paul Clough, 23. Maurie Fa’asavalu.
In blistering conditions, Saints dominated most of the first half but only had Gidley and a spectacular Francis Meli try to show for their endeavours.
Daniel Anderson’s men used their pace in the backs to clear their lines on numerous occasions and it gave the Saints the vast majority of field position.
But early in the second half, Kirk Yeaman scooted 80 yards to get Hull back in it before he doubled his tally from short range.
Danny Tickle then put Hull ahead with his conversion but Meli got his second to edge Saints ahead once more.
But real grit and determination from Jon Wilkin settled the game when he charged down a kick to race 40 yards.
There was a late score from Gareth Raynor to jangle the nerves, but Saints held out and Leon Pryce scored late on to make it safe.
Good news for Saints before the match was that Maurie Fa’asavalu came through a week of gruelling fitness tests to take a spot on the bench.
Club Captain Paul Sculthorpe started at loose forward with Lee Gilmour as substitute. With Jason Cayless unlucky with injury last weekend, Bryn Hargreaves started at prop alongside skipper Keiron Cunningham – who was playing in his ninth Challenge Cup Final.
Hull have had a torrid time with injuries recently but fielded a strong line up which included Richard Horne on the bench after a long lay off with a neck injury.
Dykes wasn’t fit to play, so all eyes were on Tommy Lee at scrum half.
After a most appropriate minute’s silence for Don Fox, Hull got the game underway, kicking towards a well shaded West Stand.
Scully came off after the first couple of minutes with what looked to be a dislocated shoulder. That meant an early call to arms for Lee Gilmour who moved into the second row. Chris Flannery taking the loose forward berth.
Sean Long then tried out his first bomb but Byrne was equal to the task.
On six minutes Berrigan kicked to the corner but Raynor just couldn’t gather it in.
A minute later, Saints had their first set of six on Hull’s line after a nice play on the last forced a knock on. And from the scrum, the ball went right, into the hands of Gidley and it was 4-0. Long short with the extras.
Francis Meli then knocked a chip through dead on the second attempt to give Hull a drop out.
On 13 minutes, another knock on from Hull was almost punished but Ade Gardner just couldn’t put down over the line.
At the other end Byrne tried his luck with a chip through but it was just too long and always covered by Francis Meli.
Saints then turned defence into pure blistering attack. Hull lost the ball over the Saints’ line, Graham tapped it at the 25 metre mark, then Francis Meli hand off three defenders on his way to a scintillating 80 metre score. Long with the extras.
On Saints next set, Willie Talau broke through with men either side of him – but his inside pass was put to ground.
From there, Hull went right up the other end and almost got through; Saints defence just doing enough.
On the half hour mark, Saints had a try ruled out when Maurie Fa’asavalu’s pass just edged forward to Willie Talau. The move had come after Paul Wellens had picked up a loose ball in his own 10 metre area, then sidestepped his way up the field.
Saints were clearly capable of scoring tries from all over the field but that final slice of luck was just evading a notch up on the scoreboard.
Then, with four minutes to go, Pryce – as he had been threatening to all game – broke through, got it off to Meli who just couldn’t ground as the was going into touch. It was unlucky, but clearly the right decision from the video referee.
Half Time: Hull FC 0 Saints 10
Lee Radford tested out Francis Meli on the first set of the second half, but his kick went just dead.
Tom Briscoe was then hauled down after a break of 50 metres – the young lad coming off worse from the tackle and leaving the field.
But seconds later a loose pass was returned with interest by Yeaman from well inside his own half to make it game on. Tickle with the extras.
Saints needed to heed the warning and step up in what was becoming a real battle of a cup tie.
And on 49 minutes, Leon put up an amazing bomb which Wellens followed up to crunch Byrne in his own in goal area. From the restart, Wellens and James Graham drove Saints to within metres but they couldn’t unlock a steadfast defence.
Minutes later, Saints won the ball in midfield and charged down the middle. On a worked move, Long broke through and touched down, but the video referee was instructed to look for crossing. And, as expected, Klein gave the decision Hull’s way, ruling Chris Flannery had come into the attacking line.
It was another respite for Hull and moments later a Sean Long tackle dislodged the ball as they nearly drew level.
On 61 minutes, Hull chipped through and won a repeat set right on Saints’ line. And after three strong drives, Yeaman popped up again to equalise.
Danny Tickle with the extras to send them ahead.
That lead lasted four minutes. Hull were penalised for lying on and three tackles later it was wide and Meli strolled in for his second. Long with a magnificent conversion from the touchline.
And Jon Wilkin charged down a kick with ten minutes to go and raced 40 yards to put down.
There was a late sting in the tail when Raynor went over in the corner – off a forward pass – giving Saints just five minutes to hold out.
And they did more than that – Pryce going over to hand Saints the cup once again.
Match Summary
Hull FC:
Tries: Yeaman (2)
Goals: Tickle (2 from 3)
Saints:
Tries: Gidley, Meli (2), Wilkin, Pryce
Goals: Long (4 from 5)
Penalties:
Hull FC: 6
Saints: 5
HT (Sts First): 10-0
FT (Sts First): 28-16
REF: Steve Ganson
ATT: 82,821
Teams:
Hull FC:
25. Todd Byrne; 2. Matt Sing, 17. Graeme Horne, 3. Kirk Yeaman, 5. Gareth Raynor; 13. Danny Washbrook, 23. Tommy Lee; 8. Ewan Dowes, 9. Shaun Berrigan, 26. Peter Cusack, 16. Willie Manu, 12. Danny Tickle, 11. Lee Radford.
Subs: 6. Richard Horne, 10. Garreth Carvell, 27. Tom Briscoe. 31. Jamie Thackray.
Saints:
1. Paul Wellens; 2. Ade Gardner, 3. Matt Gidley, 4. Willie Talau, 5. Francis Meli; 6. Leon Pryce, 7. Sean Long; 17. James Graham, 9. Keiron Cunningham, 18. Bryn Hargreaves, 12. Jon Wilkin, 16. Chris Flannery, 13. Paul Sculthorpe.
Subs: 11. Lee Gilmour, 14. James Roby, 21. Paul Clough, 23. Maurie Fa’asavalu.
Cup Final joy for Saints
Carnegie Challenge Cup kings Saints survived an almighty second-half scare to secure a third straight final success with a win over injury-hit Hull at Wembley.
Daniel Anderson's men had appeared to be coasting towards a 12th showpiece win after opening up a 10-0 half-time lead through tries from Matt Gidley and Francis Meli, despite losing Paul Sculthorpe to a suspected dislocated shoulder after just two minutes.
But Richard Agar's Hull side fought back heroically in the second half and two tries from Kirk Yeaman briefly put them on course for what would have been an incredible victory.
But St Helens' big-game experience shone through with further tries from Meli, Jon Wilkin and Leon Pryce ensuring that Anderson will leave at the end of the year having only tasted defeat in the competition once, ironically against Hull in the 2005 semi-finals.
Daniel Anderson's men had appeared to be coasting towards a 12th showpiece win after opening up a 10-0 half-time lead through tries from Matt Gidley and Francis Meli, despite losing Paul Sculthorpe to a suspected dislocated shoulder after just two minutes.
But Richard Agar's Hull side fought back heroically in the second half and two tries from Kirk Yeaman briefly put them on course for what would have been an incredible victory.
But St Helens' big-game experience shone through with further tries from Meli, Jon Wilkin and Leon Pryce ensuring that Anderson will leave at the end of the year having only tasted defeat in the competition once, ironically against Hull in the 2005 semi-finals.
Agar takes a gamble.
HULL coach Richard Agar is prepared to take a “calculated” risk with his team against hot favourites St Helens in today’s Carnegie Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
Hooker Danny Houghton was the unlucky player to miss out when Agar trimmed his 19-man squad by one at the eve-of-final walkabout but the coach will not reveal his line-up until an hour before kick-off.
Richard Horne, who has not played since April because of a career-threatening neck injury, and fellow half-back Adam Dykes, who has only played once since the semi-final because of a knee injury, both remain in contention.
With Houghton out of the picture, Tommy Lee is likely to provide back-up to hooker Shaun Berrigan, which points to Horne missing out unless Agar gambles on the player’s chronic lack of match fitness.
“The players know the team but we’ve another training session yet to negotiate and I don’t want to tempt fate, knowing what we’ve been through this year,” said Agar.
“It goes without saying that Richard’s not where we wanted him to be but his neck’s fine and the work he’s done in three or four weeks is tremendous.
“We’re picking a team that we think can win the game and, if we feel we need to take a risk, we’ll take it. There are no second chances.”
Hull have never won at Wembley – they lost there in 1959, 1960, 1980, 1983 and 1985 and drew in 1982 – and are the biggest underdogs since Sheffield Eagles beat Wigan 10 years ago.
But Agar insists his patched-up side have the self-belief to spring an upset, saying: “I’ve got a highly-motivated team with nothing to lose.”
St Helens captain Keiron Cunningham is determined to help the Challenge Cup kings to a third straight win – because he fears his side’s reign will soon come to an end.
“We’d like to win every trophy and be a part of every big game,” Cunningham said, “but I think it will happen less and less in the future. The competition is getting tougher and tougher.”
Hooker Danny Houghton was the unlucky player to miss out when Agar trimmed his 19-man squad by one at the eve-of-final walkabout but the coach will not reveal his line-up until an hour before kick-off.
Richard Horne, who has not played since April because of a career-threatening neck injury, and fellow half-back Adam Dykes, who has only played once since the semi-final because of a knee injury, both remain in contention.
With Houghton out of the picture, Tommy Lee is likely to provide back-up to hooker Shaun Berrigan, which points to Horne missing out unless Agar gambles on the player’s chronic lack of match fitness.
“The players know the team but we’ve another training session yet to negotiate and I don’t want to tempt fate, knowing what we’ve been through this year,” said Agar.
“It goes without saying that Richard’s not where we wanted him to be but his neck’s fine and the work he’s done in three or four weeks is tremendous.
“We’re picking a team that we think can win the game and, if we feel we need to take a risk, we’ll take it. There are no second chances.”
Hull have never won at Wembley – they lost there in 1959, 1960, 1980, 1983 and 1985 and drew in 1982 – and are the biggest underdogs since Sheffield Eagles beat Wigan 10 years ago.
But Agar insists his patched-up side have the self-belief to spring an upset, saying: “I’ve got a highly-motivated team with nothing to lose.”
St Helens captain Keiron Cunningham is determined to help the Challenge Cup kings to a third straight win – because he fears his side’s reign will soon come to an end.
“We’d like to win every trophy and be a part of every big game,” Cunningham said, “but I think it will happen less and less in the future. The competition is getting tougher and tougher.”
Sculthorpe: The final challenge
Even for someone with the robust self belief of Paul Sculthorpe, it came as sweet music to hear his coach say that he will definitely play at Wembley today.
Sculthorpe was threatened with the ignominy of his St Helens career ending in a whimper. Having been told that there will be no contract for him next season, the latest in his depressing series of injuries seemed to have arrived at precisely the wrong time as he aimed for the Challenge Cup final against Hull and then the Super League play-offs.
"It's been frustrating more than anything, because apart from the injuries I've felt great," said the former Great Britain captain. That is rather a big "apart from". Sculthorpe's troubles began with major knee surgery, carried on with a snapped Achilles tendon and continued with the relatively low-grade but equally galling problem of a niggling hamstring.
There were whispers that the player, who has twice been elected Man of Steel as the season's outstanding player, was now more a man of straw. Sculthorpe got his chance to change that perception last Sunday at Huddersfield, where he was as good as told by his coach, Daniel Anderson, that he needed to play the full 80 minutes to prove that he was fit for the final.
He managed that and, equally significantly, another of Saints' experienced forwards, the New Zealand prop Jason Cayless, damaged knee ligaments and was ruled out of the final. Sculthorpe was in the frame.
"I knew it was important to get through the game at Huddersfield and now it's great to be selected," said Sculthorpe, who bitterly resents being seen as a washed-up veteran. "It's a while since I played a full 80 minutes. The timing was going a bit by the end, but fitness-wise I was fine."
That has rarely been the case during Anderson's three and a half years at Knowsley Road. "I've hardly played for Daniel," Sculthorpe said. Indeed, when he has, it has not always been to great effect. One notable exception was in the World Club Challenge against the Brisbane Broncos at the start of the 2007 season, when Sculthorpe came back after a long lay-off and had a stunningly influential game.
In general, however, he has become a peripheral figure. There seems little warmth between him and Anderson and when Sculthorpe has played it has rarely been in the role he prefers. Before his run of bad luck, Sculthorpe aspired to the classic loose-forward's range, destroying and creating with a free rein to go wherever on the pitch he saw fit.
"When I've played recently, it's been more of a right-sided second-row role, running straight lines," he said. "But before the latest injury I was voted best loose-forward of the month, so I was getting back some form."
This second-row-esque role can seem mundane, but it is the role that will be required of him today. At least that state of affairs gives him the chance to go into the future as a winner, something even the unsentimental Anderson says one of the best players of his generation deserves. What that future holds is less clear. Sculthorpe wants to carry on playing, although there is talk of an off-field role at Saints. Wakefield were interested in recruiting him to play alongside his younger brother, Danny, but decided that they could not afford him. He has also been linked with the two new Super League clubs, Salford and the Celtic Crusaders.
"I've got a few options," he said. "I want to get these games out of the way and if I am leaving I want to leave in the right way."
The future for Saints lies with players like Paul Clough, who is 10 years younger than Sculthorpe almost to the day and who would, had everyone been fit, probably have kept the older man out of the Wembley side. With his boundless enthusiasm and energy, Clough might remind Sculthorpe of his younger self.
"He's so keen that they have to tell him when he's done enough training," Sculthorpe said. "With players like him, James Graham and James Roby, the future is in safe hands."
Another way of looking at the future is through the eyes of Sculthorpe's eight-year-old son, Jake, who was with him for the squad announcement this week and had to be told by his dad to stop spinning a rugby ball around during the interviews. Jake plays for the Orrell St James club that produced, among others, Keiron Cunningham and Andy Farrell. "His skill level's terrific, because he's always had a ball in his hands," Sculthorpe said.
There have been times when we wondered whether Sculthorpe would get a ball in his hands for Saints again, but he has the chance now to leave the club amid good memories of performing on the big stage.
Challenge Cup final teams
St Helens
1 Paul Wellens
2 Ade Gardner
3 Matt Gidley
4 Wille Talau
5 Francis Meli
6 Leon Pryce
7 Sean Long
8 Nick Fozzard
9 Keiron Cunningham
10 James Graham
11 Jon Wilkin
12 Chris Flannery
13 Paul Sculthorpe
Substitutes: James Roby, Bryn Hargreaves, Paul Clough, Lee Gilmour.
Hull
1 Todd Byrne
2 Matt Sing
3 Graeme Horne
4 Kirk Yeaman
5 Gareth Raynor
6 Danny Washbrook
7 Richard Horne or Adam Dykes
8 Ewan Dowes
9 Shaun Berrigan
10 Garreth Carvell
11 Willie Manu
12 Danny Tickle
13 Lee Radford
Substitutes: Peter Cusack, Tommy Lee, Jamie Thackray, Tom Briscoe.
Referee: S Ganson (St Helens)
Kick-off: 2.30pm (bbc1, 1.30pm)
Sculthorpe was threatened with the ignominy of his St Helens career ending in a whimper. Having been told that there will be no contract for him next season, the latest in his depressing series of injuries seemed to have arrived at precisely the wrong time as he aimed for the Challenge Cup final against Hull and then the Super League play-offs.
"It's been frustrating more than anything, because apart from the injuries I've felt great," said the former Great Britain captain. That is rather a big "apart from". Sculthorpe's troubles began with major knee surgery, carried on with a snapped Achilles tendon and continued with the relatively low-grade but equally galling problem of a niggling hamstring.
There were whispers that the player, who has twice been elected Man of Steel as the season's outstanding player, was now more a man of straw. Sculthorpe got his chance to change that perception last Sunday at Huddersfield, where he was as good as told by his coach, Daniel Anderson, that he needed to play the full 80 minutes to prove that he was fit for the final.
He managed that and, equally significantly, another of Saints' experienced forwards, the New Zealand prop Jason Cayless, damaged knee ligaments and was ruled out of the final. Sculthorpe was in the frame.
"I knew it was important to get through the game at Huddersfield and now it's great to be selected," said Sculthorpe, who bitterly resents being seen as a washed-up veteran. "It's a while since I played a full 80 minutes. The timing was going a bit by the end, but fitness-wise I was fine."
That has rarely been the case during Anderson's three and a half years at Knowsley Road. "I've hardly played for Daniel," Sculthorpe said. Indeed, when he has, it has not always been to great effect. One notable exception was in the World Club Challenge against the Brisbane Broncos at the start of the 2007 season, when Sculthorpe came back after a long lay-off and had a stunningly influential game.
In general, however, he has become a peripheral figure. There seems little warmth between him and Anderson and when Sculthorpe has played it has rarely been in the role he prefers. Before his run of bad luck, Sculthorpe aspired to the classic loose-forward's range, destroying and creating with a free rein to go wherever on the pitch he saw fit.
"When I've played recently, it's been more of a right-sided second-row role, running straight lines," he said. "But before the latest injury I was voted best loose-forward of the month, so I was getting back some form."
This second-row-esque role can seem mundane, but it is the role that will be required of him today. At least that state of affairs gives him the chance to go into the future as a winner, something even the unsentimental Anderson says one of the best players of his generation deserves. What that future holds is less clear. Sculthorpe wants to carry on playing, although there is talk of an off-field role at Saints. Wakefield were interested in recruiting him to play alongside his younger brother, Danny, but decided that they could not afford him. He has also been linked with the two new Super League clubs, Salford and the Celtic Crusaders.
"I've got a few options," he said. "I want to get these games out of the way and if I am leaving I want to leave in the right way."
The future for Saints lies with players like Paul Clough, who is 10 years younger than Sculthorpe almost to the day and who would, had everyone been fit, probably have kept the older man out of the Wembley side. With his boundless enthusiasm and energy, Clough might remind Sculthorpe of his younger self.
"He's so keen that they have to tell him when he's done enough training," Sculthorpe said. "With players like him, James Graham and James Roby, the future is in safe hands."
Another way of looking at the future is through the eyes of Sculthorpe's eight-year-old son, Jake, who was with him for the squad announcement this week and had to be told by his dad to stop spinning a rugby ball around during the interviews. Jake plays for the Orrell St James club that produced, among others, Keiron Cunningham and Andy Farrell. "His skill level's terrific, because he's always had a ball in his hands," Sculthorpe said.
There have been times when we wondered whether Sculthorpe would get a ball in his hands for Saints again, but he has the chance now to leave the club amid good memories of performing on the big stage.
Challenge Cup final teams
St Helens
1 Paul Wellens
2 Ade Gardner
3 Matt Gidley
4 Wille Talau
5 Francis Meli
6 Leon Pryce
7 Sean Long
8 Nick Fozzard
9 Keiron Cunningham
10 James Graham
11 Jon Wilkin
12 Chris Flannery
13 Paul Sculthorpe
Substitutes: James Roby, Bryn Hargreaves, Paul Clough, Lee Gilmour.
Hull
1 Todd Byrne
2 Matt Sing
3 Graeme Horne
4 Kirk Yeaman
5 Gareth Raynor
6 Danny Washbrook
7 Richard Horne or Adam Dykes
8 Ewan Dowes
9 Shaun Berrigan
10 Garreth Carvell
11 Willie Manu
12 Danny Tickle
13 Lee Radford
Substitutes: Peter Cusack, Tommy Lee, Jamie Thackray, Tom Briscoe.
Referee: S Ganson (St Helens)
Kick-off: 2.30pm (bbc1, 1.30pm)
Friday, 29 August 2008
Squads for the final.
St Helens and Hull FC have announced 19-man squads for the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley on Saturday August 30.
St Helens Head Coach, Daniel Anderson will choose from:1. Paul Wellens, 2. Ade Gardner, 3. Matt Gidley, 4. Willie Talau, 5. Francis Meli, 6. Leon Pryce, 7. Sean Long, 8. Nick Fozzard, 9. Keiron Cunningham, 11. Lee Gilmour, 12. Jon Wilkin, 13. Paul Sculthorpe, 14. James Roby, 16. Chris Flannery, 17. James Graham, 18. Bryn Hargreaves, 21. Paul Clough, 23. Maurie Fa'asavalu, 24. Kyle Eastmond.
Hull FC Head Coach, Richard Agar, will choose from:2. Matt Sing, 3. Kirk Yeaman, 5. Gareth Raynor, 6. Richard Horne, 7. Adam Dykes, 8. Ewan Dowes, 9. Shaun Berrigan, 10. Garreth Carvell, 11. Lee Radford, 12. Danny Tickle, 13. Danny Washbrook, 16. Willie Manu, 17. Graeme Horne, 20. Danny Houghton, 23. Tommy Lee, 25. Todd Byrne, 26. Peter Cusack, 27. Tom Briscoe, 28. Ashley Thackeray.
Referee for the clash which kicks off at 2.30pm is Steve Ganson.
St Helens Head Coach, Daniel Anderson will choose from:1. Paul Wellens, 2. Ade Gardner, 3. Matt Gidley, 4. Willie Talau, 5. Francis Meli, 6. Leon Pryce, 7. Sean Long, 8. Nick Fozzard, 9. Keiron Cunningham, 11. Lee Gilmour, 12. Jon Wilkin, 13. Paul Sculthorpe, 14. James Roby, 16. Chris Flannery, 17. James Graham, 18. Bryn Hargreaves, 21. Paul Clough, 23. Maurie Fa'asavalu, 24. Kyle Eastmond.
Hull FC Head Coach, Richard Agar, will choose from:2. Matt Sing, 3. Kirk Yeaman, 5. Gareth Raynor, 6. Richard Horne, 7. Adam Dykes, 8. Ewan Dowes, 9. Shaun Berrigan, 10. Garreth Carvell, 11. Lee Radford, 12. Danny Tickle, 13. Danny Washbrook, 16. Willie Manu, 17. Graeme Horne, 20. Danny Houghton, 23. Tommy Lee, 25. Todd Byrne, 26. Peter Cusack, 27. Tom Briscoe, 28. Ashley Thackeray.
Referee for the clash which kicks off at 2.30pm is Steve Ganson.
Dowes; we will win.
EWAN Dowes has a sneaky feeling Hull FC's name may have been on the Challenge Cup in 2008 all along.
A winner with the club in Cardiff in 2005, the long-serving prop has endured a tough season for the Black and Whites.
But as Richard Agar's men prepare to take on the all-conquering St Helens tomorrow, Dowes is quietly confident FC may well pull off one of the biggest shocks in final history.
"It feels like our year again, just like it did in 2005" he told the Mail.
"It's a massive achievement to get to Wembley, and a great boost for the city and our club. We have come this far, but now we have to go all the way.
"The Challenge Cup has given us a great glimmer of hope that we can rescue our season.
"It's been an unbelievably tough year for us with injuries and Peter Sharp getting sacked - it's all gone against us. It would be a tragedy if we didn't get something out of it."
A winner with the club in Cardiff in 2005, the long-serving prop has endured a tough season for the Black and Whites.
But as Richard Agar's men prepare to take on the all-conquering St Helens tomorrow, Dowes is quietly confident FC may well pull off one of the biggest shocks in final history.
"It feels like our year again, just like it did in 2005" he told the Mail.
"It's a massive achievement to get to Wembley, and a great boost for the city and our club. We have come this far, but now we have to go all the way.
"The Challenge Cup has given us a great glimmer of hope that we can rescue our season.
"It's been an unbelievably tough year for us with injuries and Peter Sharp getting sacked - it's all gone against us. It would be a tragedy if we didn't get something out of it."
Kear, there could be another shock win.
John Kear inspired one of the all-time Challenge Cup shocks and now he says Hull FC can pull off another.
Kear was coach of Sheffield Eagles in 1998 when they sent shockwaves through rugby league by defeating all-conquering Wigan at Wembley.
Kear was denied a place in this year's showpiece when Wakefield lost their semi-final, but he insists Wildcats' conquerors Hull are capable of shocking St Helens tomorrow.
Holders St Helens are unbeaten in 21 matches and are red-hot 1-7 favourites – it's little wonder Castleford Tigers boss Terry Matterson thinks you'd need "rocks in your head" to opt for Hull.
While Kear isn't tipping Hull, he has masterminded an upset before and sees every possibility of it happening again."It's one of those games where it brings together the underdog against massive favourites, but I think Hull have got a great opportunity," said former Black and Whites boss Kear."Obviously, Saints are favourites but their winning run in both the Challenge Cup and Super League has got to end some time. Hull have every chance and what better place to end that run than when there is silverware?"I don't know what the odds are, obviously St Helens are favourites, but upsets do occur and Hull have proved they have got the winning mentality for big games."If they go in with a positive frame of mind I'm sure they can shake them up."
Saints were last toppled by Castleford Tigers who recorded a 30-24 triumph at the Jungle back in April.Give Cas boss Terry Matterson a free bet and he'll be with St Helens, but the Australian-born coach is another who can't rule out an upset."You have to say St Helens and you'd have to have rocks in your head to be tipping Hull," said Matterson."Saying that, you look at how many internationals Hull have got and all it takes is for Saints to have one of those off games."history shows it can happen – Hull beat Leeds and I still remember Sheffield, I was there when they beat Wigan."
Tigers were a long way off making the final – eliminated in the fourth round at Harlequins – but like Wakefield, Leeds Rhinos only narrowly failed to get there after semi-final heartache at the hands of St Helens.Rhinos coach Brian McClennan expects Saints to prevail, but insists the final is no one-horse race."There is never only one team in it in such a big game and we've seen countless times before where the underdog gets up," said McClennan."There is never just one team in the final."I think Saints will be very difficult to beat but stranger things have happened. That's the beauty of sport and why we go to watch."Anything can happen, but if Saints play to their full potential they will win."Like Wakefield, Rhinos were within touching distance of the final and while McClennan says his players are now grateful for the rest, he admits that everyone was dreaming of Wembley."We all wish we were there, but we'll get another shot at it," he said."it just didn't work out this year with injuries and the itinerary, but I'm going to go to the game and it will be interesting."I wanted to go to the final with Leeds – I wanted to go to win the Challenge Cup – but I am going down to watch it and have a look at Wembley for the first time. I'll enjoy that."I'm sure the occasion will be good and anything can happen in sport."Hull have got a lot of experience of finals in their team but they might just be a little bit underdone."
Kear was coach of Sheffield Eagles in 1998 when they sent shockwaves through rugby league by defeating all-conquering Wigan at Wembley.
Kear was denied a place in this year's showpiece when Wakefield lost their semi-final, but he insists Wildcats' conquerors Hull are capable of shocking St Helens tomorrow.
Holders St Helens are unbeaten in 21 matches and are red-hot 1-7 favourites – it's little wonder Castleford Tigers boss Terry Matterson thinks you'd need "rocks in your head" to opt for Hull.
While Kear isn't tipping Hull, he has masterminded an upset before and sees every possibility of it happening again."It's one of those games where it brings together the underdog against massive favourites, but I think Hull have got a great opportunity," said former Black and Whites boss Kear."Obviously, Saints are favourites but their winning run in both the Challenge Cup and Super League has got to end some time. Hull have every chance and what better place to end that run than when there is silverware?"I don't know what the odds are, obviously St Helens are favourites, but upsets do occur and Hull have proved they have got the winning mentality for big games."If they go in with a positive frame of mind I'm sure they can shake them up."
Saints were last toppled by Castleford Tigers who recorded a 30-24 triumph at the Jungle back in April.Give Cas boss Terry Matterson a free bet and he'll be with St Helens, but the Australian-born coach is another who can't rule out an upset."You have to say St Helens and you'd have to have rocks in your head to be tipping Hull," said Matterson."Saying that, you look at how many internationals Hull have got and all it takes is for Saints to have one of those off games."history shows it can happen – Hull beat Leeds and I still remember Sheffield, I was there when they beat Wigan."
Tigers were a long way off making the final – eliminated in the fourth round at Harlequins – but like Wakefield, Leeds Rhinos only narrowly failed to get there after semi-final heartache at the hands of St Helens.Rhinos coach Brian McClennan expects Saints to prevail, but insists the final is no one-horse race."There is never only one team in it in such a big game and we've seen countless times before where the underdog gets up," said McClennan."There is never just one team in the final."I think Saints will be very difficult to beat but stranger things have happened. That's the beauty of sport and why we go to watch."Anything can happen, but if Saints play to their full potential they will win."Like Wakefield, Rhinos were within touching distance of the final and while McClennan says his players are now grateful for the rest, he admits that everyone was dreaming of Wembley."We all wish we were there, but we'll get another shot at it," he said."it just didn't work out this year with injuries and the itinerary, but I'm going to go to the game and it will be interesting."I wanted to go to the final with Leeds – I wanted to go to win the Challenge Cup – but I am going down to watch it and have a look at Wembley for the first time. I'll enjoy that."I'm sure the occasion will be good and anything can happen in sport."Hull have got a lot of experience of finals in their team but they might just be a little bit underdone."
Cunningham has more to offer.
KEIRON CUNNINGHAM, who has scored 163 tries in his 433 appearances for St Helens, will lead his team out on his eighth rugby league Challenge Cup final appearance tomorrow, 12 years on from his first.
And the former Wales and Great Britain international, 31, has confirmed that he is poised to extend his career for another 12 months, with the club close to making an announcement.
“I am feeling good and I’m in good form so I’d like to think I can go round again,” he said.
James Roby could be the face of English rugby league for the next decade, but for now he is happy to play second fiddle to living legend Cunningham.
Even lifting the Man of Steel award at the end of last season has not been enough to guarantee Roby a place in Saints starting line-up and he will occupy a familiar position on the bench in the Carnegie Challenge Cup final against Hull.
He has once more made more appearances as a substitute than as a member of the run-on team, but 22-year-old Roby is not complaining.
He is content to provide back-up to inspirational captain Cunningham and, of course, came off the bench to score the first try at the new Wembley in his side’s 30-8 win over Catalans Dragons a year ago.
“With Keiron in front of me, I’m in no position to start demanding a starting spot,” he said.
“This year I’ve started more games than I have in the past and I’ve had more game-time than in previous years.
“The more minutes I play, the better, to be honest, but I’m fine with coming off the bench.
“I know how lucky I’ve been to come into the St Helens team at the right time. Since I broke into the first team, we seem to be winning all these trophies so I know I’m a lucky lad.
“I’ll wait for my time. Knowing Keiron, he’ll probably end up doing another year. He’s not showing any signs of stopping.”
And the former Wales and Great Britain international, 31, has confirmed that he is poised to extend his career for another 12 months, with the club close to making an announcement.
“I am feeling good and I’m in good form so I’d like to think I can go round again,” he said.
James Roby could be the face of English rugby league for the next decade, but for now he is happy to play second fiddle to living legend Cunningham.
Even lifting the Man of Steel award at the end of last season has not been enough to guarantee Roby a place in Saints starting line-up and he will occupy a familiar position on the bench in the Carnegie Challenge Cup final against Hull.
He has once more made more appearances as a substitute than as a member of the run-on team, but 22-year-old Roby is not complaining.
He is content to provide back-up to inspirational captain Cunningham and, of course, came off the bench to score the first try at the new Wembley in his side’s 30-8 win over Catalans Dragons a year ago.
“With Keiron in front of me, I’m in no position to start demanding a starting spot,” he said.
“This year I’ve started more games than I have in the past and I’ve had more game-time than in previous years.
“The more minutes I play, the better, to be honest, but I’m fine with coming off the bench.
“I know how lucky I’ve been to come into the St Helens team at the right time. Since I broke into the first team, we seem to be winning all these trophies so I know I’m a lucky lad.
“I’ll wait for my time. Knowing Keiron, he’ll probably end up doing another year. He’s not showing any signs of stopping.”
Saints plan a grand finale for Anderson
The prospect of sending off their popular coach with a third Carnegie Challenge Cup winners' medal will provide additional motivation for the St Helens players at Wembley on Saturday.
Daniel Anderson will return with his family to Australia at the end of the season and hooker James Roby admits that completing a second League and Cup double would act as a fitting tribute to his three successful years at the helm.
Saints seek to complete the first leg of the double with victory over Hull tomorrow and Roby said: "It would be a great send-off to Daniel.
"Although they've not really said anything openly as a group, I think most of lads have thought about it.
"For what Daniel has done - and I think the fans love him as well - if we can send him off on a high, we'll definitely be trying to get him some silverware before he goes."
Anderson, who quit as New Zealand boss to come to Super League, had a tough act to follow when he succeeded countryman Ian Millward, who had guided Saints to five major trophies in his five years, but he has experienced just 18 defeats in his 118 matches at the helm.
The irony is that his only Challenge Cup defeat was at the hands of tomorrow's opponents, who pulled off a shock 34-8 win in the 2005 semi-finals.
Stand-off Leon Pryce, whose career has blossomed since his surprise move from Bradford three years ago, singles out his father Denis, a forward with Hunslet and Bradford, as the biggest influence on his career but is also in debt to Anderson.
"Daniel is definitely the second biggest influence on my career," he said. "I think all the players who have played under him have flourished.
"They have all played their best rugby over the last three years and it can't be a coincidence, can it?
"Tony Smith went away on a high from Leeds last year and it would be nice to do the same for Daniel because he deserves it."
Daniel Anderson will return with his family to Australia at the end of the season and hooker James Roby admits that completing a second League and Cup double would act as a fitting tribute to his three successful years at the helm.
Saints seek to complete the first leg of the double with victory over Hull tomorrow and Roby said: "It would be a great send-off to Daniel.
"Although they've not really said anything openly as a group, I think most of lads have thought about it.
"For what Daniel has done - and I think the fans love him as well - if we can send him off on a high, we'll definitely be trying to get him some silverware before he goes."
Anderson, who quit as New Zealand boss to come to Super League, had a tough act to follow when he succeeded countryman Ian Millward, who had guided Saints to five major trophies in his five years, but he has experienced just 18 defeats in his 118 matches at the helm.
The irony is that his only Challenge Cup defeat was at the hands of tomorrow's opponents, who pulled off a shock 34-8 win in the 2005 semi-finals.
Stand-off Leon Pryce, whose career has blossomed since his surprise move from Bradford three years ago, singles out his father Denis, a forward with Hunslet and Bradford, as the biggest influence on his career but is also in debt to Anderson.
"Daniel is definitely the second biggest influence on my career," he said. "I think all the players who have played under him have flourished.
"They have all played their best rugby over the last three years and it can't be a coincidence, can it?
"Tony Smith went away on a high from Leeds last year and it would be nice to do the same for Daniel because he deserves it."
Saturday, 23 August 2008
Wakefield can't afford Scully
Wakefield have dropped their interest in former Great Britain captain Paul Sculthorpe.
The Wildcats were considered favourites to sign the goalkicking loose forward, who is out of contract at St Helens at the end of the season, and pair him up with brother Danny - but they have pulled out of negotiations.
It follows a decision by Salford to halt talks and leaves 30-year-old Sculthorpe low on options. Saints have told the player he is free to talk to other clubs, a clear indication they will not be offering him a new contract.
"John Kear, as coach, was very keen. But we've been informed by the Wakefield club that their salary cap won't allow them to enter negotiations," said Sculthorpe's manager David Howes.
"They are no longer candidates, but there is still a possibility of Salford re-entering negotiations. They are waiting for Paul to finish the season and they will review it.
"We are at the back end of the big spend, but there is another month before we start pressing the panic buttons."
Sculthorpe's injury record and the constraints of the salary cap are believed to be behind St Helens' decision to part company with one of the most decorated players of the Super League era.
The two-time Man of Steel winner was appointed club captain at Knowsley Road in 2004 and led the club to victory at two Challenge Cup finals, but his last two years have been plighted by injury and he has played only 12 games this year.
However, he is expected to return to the side at Huddersfield on Sunday - and push for a place in next week's Challenge Cup final.
The Wildcats were considered favourites to sign the goalkicking loose forward, who is out of contract at St Helens at the end of the season, and pair him up with brother Danny - but they have pulled out of negotiations.
It follows a decision by Salford to halt talks and leaves 30-year-old Sculthorpe low on options. Saints have told the player he is free to talk to other clubs, a clear indication they will not be offering him a new contract.
"John Kear, as coach, was very keen. But we've been informed by the Wakefield club that their salary cap won't allow them to enter negotiations," said Sculthorpe's manager David Howes.
"They are no longer candidates, but there is still a possibility of Salford re-entering negotiations. They are waiting for Paul to finish the season and they will review it.
"We are at the back end of the big spend, but there is another month before we start pressing the panic buttons."
Sculthorpe's injury record and the constraints of the salary cap are believed to be behind St Helens' decision to part company with one of the most decorated players of the Super League era.
The two-time Man of Steel winner was appointed club captain at Knowsley Road in 2004 and led the club to victory at two Challenge Cup finals, but his last two years have been plighted by injury and he has played only 12 games this year.
However, he is expected to return to the side at Huddersfield on Sunday - and push for a place in next week's Challenge Cup final.
Noble on Rhinos win
Wigan Warriors were defeated 16-52 by the Leeds Rhinos at the JJB Stadium on Friday night. After the game Brian Noble said, "Leeds were pretty hot tonight in certain spells, we probably couldn't handle them which was disappointing. It's important we recognise what went on, at 12-10 we got back into the game and gifted them a try, we let a couple of soft ones in. I thought Leeds were particularly good in the second half and they blew us away. We lacked a few people on the fringes. We aren't down and out, it's a great lesson for us in relation to how intense you have to be at the back end of the year. We get a week off now bit I am still confident we will be there or thereabouts in the play-offs. "A couple of bounces of the ball didn't go our way, that happens against teams like Leeds and it reflects in the score. They worked us over in the middle and then came away and with Burrow and McGuire on the front foot, their kicking game was better than ours as well." Wigan let in a try either side of half time which opened up an advantage to Leeds, on that Brian added, "We were disappointed with that, it's something we talked about. There is plenty to work on but it's not complete doom and gloom, we will get some players back for our last game of the season and then the serious business starts." On the possibility of finishing 4th and a home tie , Brian said, "We will have to see what happens this weekend, probably our points for and against aren't as good as some of the others so that may count against us, it will be difficult. We are in the play-offs which is the important thing "
Hargreaves signs a new deal
St Helens' prop Bryn Hargreaves has signed a two-year contract that will see him remain at the club until 2010.
The 22-year-old joined Saints from Wigan in 2006 and has impressed coach Daniel Anderson during his time there, scoring five tries in 26 appearances.
"He's come on tremendously and he's been a great addition," Anderson told BBC Radio Merseyside.
"He's a very honest player, a good fellow to boot and a great character in the club. I'm very happy for Bryn."
Hargreaves, whose five tries include a hat-trick from the bench against Bradford in June, said he was delighted to have signed on the dotted line.
I could have moved elsewhere for a bigger contract, but I wanted to stay at the club
Bryn Hargreaves
"I'm very happy to have finally sorted out my new contract," he said.
"The next two years will be very exciting for the club with a new coach and new faces and I am delighted to be a part of it.
"I could have moved elsewhere for a bigger contract, but I wanted to stay at the club because I believe I have more chance of winning trophies here than at any other."
Meanwhile, Saints have revealed that new coach Mick Potter will only have two new players at his disposal next season.
St Helens are not renewing the contract of club captain Paul Sculthorpe and front rower Nick Fozzard and say they will be releasing three other players in addition to possibly loaning out a further four.
Saints have already signed Tony Puletua from Penrith Panthers and will make just one more signing.
"In the long term, this will benefit not just the club, but is essential for the future success of the game at international level," said a St Helens spokesman.
The 22-year-old joined Saints from Wigan in 2006 and has impressed coach Daniel Anderson during his time there, scoring five tries in 26 appearances.
"He's come on tremendously and he's been a great addition," Anderson told BBC Radio Merseyside.
"He's a very honest player, a good fellow to boot and a great character in the club. I'm very happy for Bryn."
Hargreaves, whose five tries include a hat-trick from the bench against Bradford in June, said he was delighted to have signed on the dotted line.
I could have moved elsewhere for a bigger contract, but I wanted to stay at the club
Bryn Hargreaves
"I'm very happy to have finally sorted out my new contract," he said.
"The next two years will be very exciting for the club with a new coach and new faces and I am delighted to be a part of it.
"I could have moved elsewhere for a bigger contract, but I wanted to stay at the club because I believe I have more chance of winning trophies here than at any other."
Meanwhile, Saints have revealed that new coach Mick Potter will only have two new players at his disposal next season.
St Helens are not renewing the contract of club captain Paul Sculthorpe and front rower Nick Fozzard and say they will be releasing three other players in addition to possibly loaning out a further four.
Saints have already signed Tony Puletua from Penrith Panthers and will make just one more signing.
"In the long term, this will benefit not just the club, but is essential for the future success of the game at international level," said a St Helens spokesman.
Saints fined over salary cap.
St Helens have been fined £8,456 after being found guilty of a minor salary cap breach during the 2007 season.
But for the first time in two years no clubs have been summoned before the Rugby Football League's Operational Rules Tribunal for a serious violation.
Saints' fine is equal to the sum by which they breached the finite salary cap limit of £1.6m.
National League One side Leigh Centurions have also been fined £5,000 following a minor misconduct.
They broke the 50% rule, which prohibits a club from spending more than half of their income on players salaries.
Leigh could possibly have avoided a fine had they applied to the RFL for a dispensation to work on an Agreed Salary Cap.
This is the last retrospective audit for Super League clubs, with finances now monitored by a 'live' system introduced at the start of the current season.
"The new system we implemented this year is more proactive," said RFL's Compliance Manager Karen Moorhouse.
"A club's expenditure is continuously monitored throughout the season, which should prevent some accidental breaches that have occurred in the past.
"Although retrospective in nature, we do encourage all clubs in the National League in advance of the season to work to an Agreed Salary Cap.
The miniscule breach of the 2007 cap is based on a simple historical formula calculation error
St Helens spokesman
"This protects a club from breaching the '50% Rule' should their expected income fall."
Meanwhile, a Saints spokesman revealed that the club's fine was related to a "calculation error".
"We have always welcomed the introduction of the salary cap and are pleased to see that its objective of creating a more competitive Super League across all member clubs is coming into place," said the spokesman.
"The miniscule breach of the 2007 cap is based on a simple historical formula calculation error which was in place before the start of the 2007 season.
"This has now, under the current administration, been rectified.
"This calculation error meant that unfortunately the club did not qualify for the deductible allowances for under-21 players."
But for the first time in two years no clubs have been summoned before the Rugby Football League's Operational Rules Tribunal for a serious violation.
Saints' fine is equal to the sum by which they breached the finite salary cap limit of £1.6m.
National League One side Leigh Centurions have also been fined £5,000 following a minor misconduct.
They broke the 50% rule, which prohibits a club from spending more than half of their income on players salaries.
Leigh could possibly have avoided a fine had they applied to the RFL for a dispensation to work on an Agreed Salary Cap.
This is the last retrospective audit for Super League clubs, with finances now monitored by a 'live' system introduced at the start of the current season.
"The new system we implemented this year is more proactive," said RFL's Compliance Manager Karen Moorhouse.
"A club's expenditure is continuously monitored throughout the season, which should prevent some accidental breaches that have occurred in the past.
"Although retrospective in nature, we do encourage all clubs in the National League in advance of the season to work to an Agreed Salary Cap.
The miniscule breach of the 2007 cap is based on a simple historical formula calculation error
St Helens spokesman
"This protects a club from breaching the '50% Rule' should their expected income fall."
Meanwhile, a Saints spokesman revealed that the club's fine was related to a "calculation error".
"We have always welcomed the introduction of the salary cap and are pleased to see that its objective of creating a more competitive Super League across all member clubs is coming into place," said the spokesman.
"The miniscule breach of the 2007 cap is based on a simple historical formula calculation error which was in place before the start of the 2007 season.
"This has now, under the current administration, been rectified.
"This calculation error meant that unfortunately the club did not qualify for the deductible allowances for under-21 players."
Friday, 22 August 2008
Double boost for Rhinos
Young guns Luke Burgess and Carl Ablett have given Leeds Rhinos a massive fillip ahead of tonight's trip to Wigan Warriors – by agreeing new contracts.
Prop Burgess – who had a year remaining on his existing deal – has signed a two-year extension which will keep him at Rhinos until the end of 2011.Second-row/centre Ablett, 22, would have been out of contract this year, but has put pen to paper on a new one-year deal.Burgess, 21, has made a big impression for Rhinos since breaking into the senior side five months ago, while Ablett is in his fifth season as a first team player and was a member of last year's Grand Final-winning 17.Burgess' new deal is a setback for Bradford Bulls, who had been planning a move for the player at the end of next season."I had another year left on my contract, but it's nice to get things done early," said Burgess."Now I can just get on with the rest of this year and the next three years."It has been a good year and it's the icing on the cake to sign a new contract."Burgess said he was "encouraged" the club were so keen to keep him on board.He added: "It gives me confidence that the club and coaches are pleased with my progress and I am looking forward to concentrating on my rugby and helping the team to win some silverware."The coaching staff have been brilliant with me. Brian McClennan, Francis Cummins and Willie Poching have helped me to develop my game and our conditioner, Jason Davidson, has got me in great shape and kept on at me all year to improve my fitness. "I have done a lot of one-on-one work with Francis Cummins after training and he and Willie work with me on the weak areas of my game. "Brian has been a massive influence on me, given me a lot of confidence and taught me great things." Ablett, pictured, declared himself "really pleased" to be staying at Leeds for another year."Hopefully I can build on this season in 2009," he said."I have been playing a lot at centre this year, which has helped to develop different aspects of my game and I am happy to play wherever the coaching staff feel I can best help the team."I am still only 22 and I am hoping to continue to learn and develop at the Rhinos."Head coach Brian McClennan said: "This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news. "Luke has had a great year to date in his first season in the top grade and his potential is enormous."The club's policy is to keep people like him on board and to progress talented young players through the ranks."Those who work hard and achieve are rewarded with upgraded and extended contracts and I think that is the right way to do things. "Luke has been through our academy system and that has come to fruition in the first team this season."Hopefully he will keep improving and turn into a top Super League player."Carl has shown terrific versatility this year because of injuries. "He has shown that in the centres but is still only young."We know he will keep on improving and it is good to have him on board for next season."
Prop Burgess – who had a year remaining on his existing deal – has signed a two-year extension which will keep him at Rhinos until the end of 2011.Second-row/centre Ablett, 22, would have been out of contract this year, but has put pen to paper on a new one-year deal.Burgess, 21, has made a big impression for Rhinos since breaking into the senior side five months ago, while Ablett is in his fifth season as a first team player and was a member of last year's Grand Final-winning 17.Burgess' new deal is a setback for Bradford Bulls, who had been planning a move for the player at the end of next season."I had another year left on my contract, but it's nice to get things done early," said Burgess."Now I can just get on with the rest of this year and the next three years."It has been a good year and it's the icing on the cake to sign a new contract."Burgess said he was "encouraged" the club were so keen to keep him on board.He added: "It gives me confidence that the club and coaches are pleased with my progress and I am looking forward to concentrating on my rugby and helping the team to win some silverware."The coaching staff have been brilliant with me. Brian McClennan, Francis Cummins and Willie Poching have helped me to develop my game and our conditioner, Jason Davidson, has got me in great shape and kept on at me all year to improve my fitness. "I have done a lot of one-on-one work with Francis Cummins after training and he and Willie work with me on the weak areas of my game. "Brian has been a massive influence on me, given me a lot of confidence and taught me great things." Ablett, pictured, declared himself "really pleased" to be staying at Leeds for another year."Hopefully I can build on this season in 2009," he said."I have been playing a lot at centre this year, which has helped to develop different aspects of my game and I am happy to play wherever the coaching staff feel I can best help the team."I am still only 22 and I am hoping to continue to learn and develop at the Rhinos."Head coach Brian McClennan said: "This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news. "Luke has had a great year to date in his first season in the top grade and his potential is enormous."The club's policy is to keep people like him on board and to progress talented young players through the ranks."Those who work hard and achieve are rewarded with upgraded and extended contracts and I think that is the right way to do things. "Luke has been through our academy system and that has come to fruition in the first team this season."Hopefully he will keep improving and turn into a top Super League player."Carl has shown terrific versatility this year because of injuries. "He has shown that in the centres but is still only young."We know he will keep on improving and it is good to have him on board for next season."
Legend Fox dies.
Wakefield Trinity and Featherstone Rovers Rugby League legend Don Fox has died aged 72.
Remembered for missing a last-minute conversion for Wakefield in the famous 1968 'watersplash' Challenge Cup final against Leeds, he died early yesterday in Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield, after a long illness.
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats general manager Francis Stephenson said the club had been told by Don's brother and former team mate, Neil.Mr Stephenson said: "Don was a great servant for Wakefield Trinity. It is a very sad loss for both this club and Featherstone."We knew he had been ill for some time, but it still comes as a shock. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. "The name Fox has long been synonymous with this club and he was a proud part of that."
Although he will be remembered for missing the kick in the 1968 final, people should not forget that he won the Lance Todd Trophy in the same match for playing so brilliantly."The Fox brothers, Don, Neil and Peter, from Sharlston, all found Rugby League fame.
Don holds the Featherstone Rovers record for tries scored, 162, and is third in the club's all-time goal-kicking charts with 503 in 369 appearancesBut the most famous incident in his long and successful career was his failure right in front of the posts at Wembley.His despair after missing what should have been the match-winning last kick, and commentator Eddie Waring's subsequent cry of "He's a poor lad!", became one of Rugby League's most enduring images.In front of 87,000-strong Wembley crowd, Fox sliced the ball wide and the final whistle was blown immediately, giving Leeds a dramatic 11-10 victory.Wakefield fans turned out in force two days later to welcome the team home. As the players made their way to a civic reception, 5,000 people, standing 10-deep, lined the street.They carried banners urging Don Fox, then 32, to carry on playing. Prior to Wembley he had said he might retire. They proclaimed him the "greatest", cheered him and chanted his name. He did indeed carry on playing, and when he retired in 1971, he had made more than 500 appearances, accumulating 1,755 points.
Remembered for missing a last-minute conversion for Wakefield in the famous 1968 'watersplash' Challenge Cup final against Leeds, he died early yesterday in Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield, after a long illness.
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats general manager Francis Stephenson said the club had been told by Don's brother and former team mate, Neil.Mr Stephenson said: "Don was a great servant for Wakefield Trinity. It is a very sad loss for both this club and Featherstone."We knew he had been ill for some time, but it still comes as a shock. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. "The name Fox has long been synonymous with this club and he was a proud part of that."
Although he will be remembered for missing the kick in the 1968 final, people should not forget that he won the Lance Todd Trophy in the same match for playing so brilliantly."The Fox brothers, Don, Neil and Peter, from Sharlston, all found Rugby League fame.
Don holds the Featherstone Rovers record for tries scored, 162, and is third in the club's all-time goal-kicking charts with 503 in 369 appearancesBut the most famous incident in his long and successful career was his failure right in front of the posts at Wembley.His despair after missing what should have been the match-winning last kick, and commentator Eddie Waring's subsequent cry of "He's a poor lad!", became one of Rugby League's most enduring images.In front of 87,000-strong Wembley crowd, Fox sliced the ball wide and the final whistle was blown immediately, giving Leeds a dramatic 11-10 victory.Wakefield fans turned out in force two days later to welcome the team home. As the players made their way to a civic reception, 5,000 people, standing 10-deep, lined the street.They carried banners urging Don Fox, then 32, to carry on playing. Prior to Wembley he had said he might retire. They proclaimed him the "greatest", cheered him and chanted his name. He did indeed carry on playing, and when he retired in 1971, he had made more than 500 appearances, accumulating 1,755 points.
Wires could be a threat to Anderson's final hopes.
DANIEL ANDERSON admits Warrington pose a huge threat to his hopes of ending his St Helens career on a high by lifting the engage Super League in October.
Saints coach Anderson has seen his side win their last 17 games in all competitions and they are currently red-hot favourites to add a Grand Final appearance to their Challenge Cup final date in three weeks’ time.
But the Australian, who leaves the club at the end of the season, welcomes the in-form Wolves to the GPW Recruitment Stadium this evening knowing how dangerous a side they can be.
“Warrington are very good,” he said.
“With Jimmy Lowes the environment seems to have become comfortable for all the players. Sometimes it’s about that. The environment there seems conducive to the star players in the team. There seems to be more quality in their defensive shape more than anything.
“They still throw the ball around more than any other team in Super League. I enjoy watching them. Are they genuine contenders? – I think a lot of teams are genuine contenders. We are still a long way from the Grand Final. They have always been good enough but to have a say in the competition you look for consistency. Having said that, seven out of eight under James Lowes means that consistency has been rectified. It’s a good test for us and them this week.”
Anderson will be able to select the returning Nick Fozzard for the first time since February after the prop recovered from knee surgery and the coach believes the 31-year-old will be fine to return despite playing no reserve team games as preparation.
“Nick’s return gives us more flexibility and depth in selection,” he said. “It was a major knee injury and the mental side is more important than the physical side in his comeback as he has not been tackled yet.
“At some point he will be tackled in the same position as he was when he did the injury. I’m not worried about him going straight in without a reserve game.”
Fozzard’s return is countered by the loss of captain Paul Sculthorpe to a hamstring injury, although Sean Long does return from a bout of the mumps.
Despite losing the Anderson brothers for the remainder of the season this week, Lowes says that his side will be giving their all in a bid to end a horrid run of form against the Saints which has seen them win just one of their last 34 meetings.
“We are just really focussing on Saints with the players we have and we are going to have a good do at them,” he said. “Everyone knows about our record against them but the players are not interested in it and I am not interested in it. We were disappointed the last time we played them here because we know we should have beaten them.
“We are going there with a lot of determination and confidence and there will be plenty of effort.”
Saints coach Anderson has seen his side win their last 17 games in all competitions and they are currently red-hot favourites to add a Grand Final appearance to their Challenge Cup final date in three weeks’ time.
But the Australian, who leaves the club at the end of the season, welcomes the in-form Wolves to the GPW Recruitment Stadium this evening knowing how dangerous a side they can be.
“Warrington are very good,” he said.
“With Jimmy Lowes the environment seems to have become comfortable for all the players. Sometimes it’s about that. The environment there seems conducive to the star players in the team. There seems to be more quality in their defensive shape more than anything.
“They still throw the ball around more than any other team in Super League. I enjoy watching them. Are they genuine contenders? – I think a lot of teams are genuine contenders. We are still a long way from the Grand Final. They have always been good enough but to have a say in the competition you look for consistency. Having said that, seven out of eight under James Lowes means that consistency has been rectified. It’s a good test for us and them this week.”
Anderson will be able to select the returning Nick Fozzard for the first time since February after the prop recovered from knee surgery and the coach believes the 31-year-old will be fine to return despite playing no reserve team games as preparation.
“Nick’s return gives us more flexibility and depth in selection,” he said. “It was a major knee injury and the mental side is more important than the physical side in his comeback as he has not been tackled yet.
“At some point he will be tackled in the same position as he was when he did the injury. I’m not worried about him going straight in without a reserve game.”
Fozzard’s return is countered by the loss of captain Paul Sculthorpe to a hamstring injury, although Sean Long does return from a bout of the mumps.
Despite losing the Anderson brothers for the remainder of the season this week, Lowes says that his side will be giving their all in a bid to end a horrid run of form against the Saints which has seen them win just one of their last 34 meetings.
“We are just really focussing on Saints with the players we have and we are going to have a good do at them,” he said. “Everyone knows about our record against them but the players are not interested in it and I am not interested in it. We were disappointed the last time we played them here because we know we should have beaten them.
“We are going there with a lot of determination and confidence and there will be plenty of effort.”
Saturday, 16 August 2008
Kear looking to sign Scully.
Wakefield coach John Kear has confirmed that he wants to pair Paul Sculthorpe with younger brother Danny at Belle Vue next season. Sculthorpe is nearing the end of his St Helens contract and will become a free agent at the end of the current season.
Saints have told the former GB skipper they will not be retaining him for next season due to salary cap constraints and so the talented loose forward will now have to look elsewhere for a deal.
There are however thought to be several options open with Super League newcomers Salford known to be keen while Wakefield have made no secret of their interest.
Kear says Danny's presence at the club could be a deciding factor, although he also admits he remains concerned about Sculthorpe's fitness."I know Paul has always wanted to play in a professional side with his brother," said Kear. "It nearly happened once for Lancashire and that's the nearest he's ever he got."If I can facilitate that on the correct terms for the club, then I'd love to."I'd be excited by the prospect because I can remember Paul Sculthorpe playing so well over a number of years but obviously the directors are perhaps a little more conservative because there is a question mark at the minute over Paul's durability because of his injuries."That's been reflected in his number of appearances over the last two years.
Those factors will be taken into account but we will be chatting to Paul's agent and, if we can come to some agreement, I'd be delighted."
Saints have told the former GB skipper they will not be retaining him for next season due to salary cap constraints and so the talented loose forward will now have to look elsewhere for a deal.
There are however thought to be several options open with Super League newcomers Salford known to be keen while Wakefield have made no secret of their interest.
Kear says Danny's presence at the club could be a deciding factor, although he also admits he remains concerned about Sculthorpe's fitness."I know Paul has always wanted to play in a professional side with his brother," said Kear. "It nearly happened once for Lancashire and that's the nearest he's ever he got."If I can facilitate that on the correct terms for the club, then I'd love to."I'd be excited by the prospect because I can remember Paul Sculthorpe playing so well over a number of years but obviously the directors are perhaps a little more conservative because there is a question mark at the minute over Paul's durability because of his injuries."That's been reflected in his number of appearances over the last two years.
Those factors will be taken into account but we will be chatting to Paul's agent and, if we can come to some agreement, I'd be delighted."
Gidley's contract extended.
St Helens international centre Matt Gidley has put pen to paper on a one-year contract extension at the Super League club.
"It is great to know that I will be a part of a forward-thinking club and a great set of teammates for another year," said Gidley.
"I look forward to hunting more silverware in this and next season."
The 31-year-old Australian has made 60 appearances in two highly successful years at Knowsley Road.
Gidley, who signed from Newcastle Knights in 2007, has won the Challenge Cup and World Club Championship honours in his time with Saints.
His new extended deal will see him remain at the club until the end of the 2009 season.
"It is great to know that I will be a part of a forward-thinking club and a great set of teammates for another year," said Gidley.
"I look forward to hunting more silverware in this and next season."
The 31-year-old Australian has made 60 appearances in two highly successful years at Knowsley Road.
Gidley, who signed from Newcastle Knights in 2007, has won the Challenge Cup and World Club Championship honours in his time with Saints.
His new extended deal will see him remain at the club until the end of the 2009 season.
Leeds secure a top two place.
Substitute Jordan Tansey grabbed a hat-trick as reigning champions Leeds clinched a top-two finish in the engage Super League with a 54-12 rout of bottom club Castleford in their final home game of the regular season.
The Rhinos had eight different try scorers as they turned on the style to draw level with leaders St Helens, who visit Harlequins on Sunday, while the outclassed Tigers look certain to collect the wooden spoon after conceding a half-century of points for the fifth time this year.
The final touches to a one-sided match were applied by England second rower Gareth Ellis, who rounded off what could have been his final appearance at Headingley with a last-minute conversion of Tansey's third try.
Wigan survived the first-half sending-off of Richard Mathers to clinch a play-off place with a backs-to-the-wall 32-22 victory over Wakefield at the JJB Stadium.
The former Leeds full-back was given his second red card of the campaign two minutes before the break by referee Ben Thaler for leading with an elbow as he attempted to fend off Wildcats back rower Jason Demetriou, which tarnished an otherwise solid half for the Warriors.
Tries from Tim Smith, Thomas Leuluai and Cameron Phelps had opened up a 16-4 home lead after two Danny Brough penalties edged the visitors ahead early on, but it was pure grit and determination that ensured the Warriors stayed ahead in a tense second 40 minutes.
Wakefield hit back through Danny Sculthorpe, Duncan MacGillivray and Oliver Wilkes, but Mickey Higham and a late effort from Joel Tomkins sealed the points for Brian Noble's men.
The Rhinos had eight different try scorers as they turned on the style to draw level with leaders St Helens, who visit Harlequins on Sunday, while the outclassed Tigers look certain to collect the wooden spoon after conceding a half-century of points for the fifth time this year.
The final touches to a one-sided match were applied by England second rower Gareth Ellis, who rounded off what could have been his final appearance at Headingley with a last-minute conversion of Tansey's third try.
Wigan survived the first-half sending-off of Richard Mathers to clinch a play-off place with a backs-to-the-wall 32-22 victory over Wakefield at the JJB Stadium.
The former Leeds full-back was given his second red card of the campaign two minutes before the break by referee Ben Thaler for leading with an elbow as he attempted to fend off Wildcats back rower Jason Demetriou, which tarnished an otherwise solid half for the Warriors.
Tries from Tim Smith, Thomas Leuluai and Cameron Phelps had opened up a 16-4 home lead after two Danny Brough penalties edged the visitors ahead early on, but it was pure grit and determination that ensured the Warriors stayed ahead in a tense second 40 minutes.
Wakefield hit back through Danny Sculthorpe, Duncan MacGillivray and Oliver Wilkes, but Mickey Higham and a late effort from Joel Tomkins sealed the points for Brian Noble's men.
Wigan's win ensures them a top six place.
Wigan Warriors survived the first-half sending-off of Richard Mathers to clinch an engage Super League play-off place with a backs-to-the-wall 32-22 victory over Wakefield Trinity Wildcats at the JJB Stadium.
The former Leeds Rhinos full-back was given his second red card of the campaign two minutes before the break by referee Ben Thaler for leading with an elbow as he attempted to fend off Wildcats back rower Jason Demetriou, which tarnished an otherwise solid half for the Warriors.Tries from Tim Smith, Thomas Leuluai and Cameron Phelps had opened up a 16-4 home lead after two Danny Brough penalties edged the visitors ahead early on, but it was pure grit and determination that ensured the Warriors stayed ahead in a tense second 40 minutes.Wakefield hit back through Danny Sculthorpe, Duncan MacGillivray and Oliver Wilkes, but Mickey Higham and a late effort from Joel Tomkins sealed the points for Brian Noble's men.
The visitors were good value for their early advantage after Brough twice profited from Wigan stealing the ball in front of their own posts.However, Australian half-back Smith, thrust into the limelight due to the injury to Trent Barrett, stepped forward and tipped the balance in Wigan's favour.Midway through the first half, the former Parramatta man dummied his way through three would-be tacklers to cross for his first try for the club, before switching play beautifully to allow Leuluai to side-step his way over by the posts.
Two conversions by Pat Richards gave the Warriors a 12-4 advantage, before Phelps notched Wigan's third try after good work by Mike McIlorum down the right-hand flank.Although Richards slipped while attempting the conversion, the Warriors were looking comfortable until Mathers was ordered off, leaving his team-mates a man short for the second period.
Wildcats, on the back of a woeful recent run, were given fresh heart by the sending-off, and were back on level terms within 10 minutes of the restart.First Sculthorpe crashed over in the right-hand corner, before Brough's short ball sent over MacGillivray.Brough converted both to lock the scores at 16-16, although the boot of Richards edged Wigan in front again after Sculthorpe went high on Higham.The big prop was placed on report for the incident, with the home fans baying for the referee to administer a second red card, but Higham took his revenge by burrowing over on the hour mark to allow Richards to put the Warriors eight points clear.Back came Wakefield, however, and a converted Wilkes touchdown reduced the gap to two before another Richards penalty made it 26-22.The Wildcats then got the ball back from the kick-off after George Carmont spilled possession, but centre Ryan Atkins was held inches short by a desperate defence.And Wigan sealed a hard-fought win with two minutes left when Smith kicked through for Tomkins to finally finish off the plucky visitors.
The former Leeds Rhinos full-back was given his second red card of the campaign two minutes before the break by referee Ben Thaler for leading with an elbow as he attempted to fend off Wildcats back rower Jason Demetriou, which tarnished an otherwise solid half for the Warriors.Tries from Tim Smith, Thomas Leuluai and Cameron Phelps had opened up a 16-4 home lead after two Danny Brough penalties edged the visitors ahead early on, but it was pure grit and determination that ensured the Warriors stayed ahead in a tense second 40 minutes.Wakefield hit back through Danny Sculthorpe, Duncan MacGillivray and Oliver Wilkes, but Mickey Higham and a late effort from Joel Tomkins sealed the points for Brian Noble's men.
The visitors were good value for their early advantage after Brough twice profited from Wigan stealing the ball in front of their own posts.However, Australian half-back Smith, thrust into the limelight due to the injury to Trent Barrett, stepped forward and tipped the balance in Wigan's favour.Midway through the first half, the former Parramatta man dummied his way through three would-be tacklers to cross for his first try for the club, before switching play beautifully to allow Leuluai to side-step his way over by the posts.
Two conversions by Pat Richards gave the Warriors a 12-4 advantage, before Phelps notched Wigan's third try after good work by Mike McIlorum down the right-hand flank.Although Richards slipped while attempting the conversion, the Warriors were looking comfortable until Mathers was ordered off, leaving his team-mates a man short for the second period.
Wildcats, on the back of a woeful recent run, were given fresh heart by the sending-off, and were back on level terms within 10 minutes of the restart.First Sculthorpe crashed over in the right-hand corner, before Brough's short ball sent over MacGillivray.Brough converted both to lock the scores at 16-16, although the boot of Richards edged Wigan in front again after Sculthorpe went high on Higham.The big prop was placed on report for the incident, with the home fans baying for the referee to administer a second red card, but Higham took his revenge by burrowing over on the hour mark to allow Richards to put the Warriors eight points clear.Back came Wakefield, however, and a converted Wilkes touchdown reduced the gap to two before another Richards penalty made it 26-22.The Wildcats then got the ball back from the kick-off after George Carmont spilled possession, but centre Ryan Atkins was held inches short by a desperate defence.And Wigan sealed a hard-fought win with two minutes left when Smith kicked through for Tomkins to finally finish off the plucky visitors.
Sunday, 10 August 2008
Long steals the show.
Sean Long's dramatic 40-metre drop goal 13 seconds from time denied Warrington a famous victory as St Helens recorded a 17-16 triumph at Knowsley Road.
Warrington looked set for only their second derby win in 33 Super League attempts when they led 16-10 with only four minutes left.
Then Lee Gilmour forced his way over with Long adding the conversion before the ex-Great Britain scrum-half struck his crucial one-pointer.
Warrington immediately caught Saints napping with Matt King collecting Lee Briers' kick-off, but Saints grabbed the first try through Keiron Cunningham after James Graham was stopped short.
The Wolves were 10-0 down after 14 minutes with Gilmour, James Roby and Matt Gidley combining for Ade Gardner to bag his 27th try of the season.
Cunningham's lost possession allowed King to shrug off Long to open Warrington's account with Chris Hicks booting the touchline conversion.
Sloppy handling cost Saints several tries with Warrington responding to apply their own pressure just before the break and it was no surprise when Chris Riley collected Martin Gleeson's clever flick pass to go over in the corner to level the scores.
The Wolves should have gone ahead early in the second half but Hicks missed the chance after Michael Monaghan's kick ricocheted off Leon Pryce, but Warrington deservedly went in front with a sizzling 70m try on the hour.
Simon Grix took Gleeson's pass and bounced off Francis Meli to send Riley dashing 40m for his second try with Hicks tagging on the conversion to make it 16-10.
Meli missed Long's kick in the greasy conditions 10 minutes from time as Warrington sensed a famous victory, but then Gilmour, head-bandaged, powered over from close range after 76 minutes with Long booting the conversion to level the scores 16-16. Then Long added a superb drop goal after Briers had missed with a similar effort for the Wolves.
Warrington looked set for only their second derby win in 33 Super League attempts when they led 16-10 with only four minutes left.
Then Lee Gilmour forced his way over with Long adding the conversion before the ex-Great Britain scrum-half struck his crucial one-pointer.
Warrington immediately caught Saints napping with Matt King collecting Lee Briers' kick-off, but Saints grabbed the first try through Keiron Cunningham after James Graham was stopped short.
The Wolves were 10-0 down after 14 minutes with Gilmour, James Roby and Matt Gidley combining for Ade Gardner to bag his 27th try of the season.
Cunningham's lost possession allowed King to shrug off Long to open Warrington's account with Chris Hicks booting the touchline conversion.
Sloppy handling cost Saints several tries with Warrington responding to apply their own pressure just before the break and it was no surprise when Chris Riley collected Martin Gleeson's clever flick pass to go over in the corner to level the scores.
The Wolves should have gone ahead early in the second half but Hicks missed the chance after Michael Monaghan's kick ricocheted off Leon Pryce, but Warrington deservedly went in front with a sizzling 70m try on the hour.
Simon Grix took Gleeson's pass and bounced off Francis Meli to send Riley dashing 40m for his second try with Hicks tagging on the conversion to make it 16-10.
Meli missed Long's kick in the greasy conditions 10 minutes from time as Warrington sensed a famous victory, but then Gilmour, head-bandaged, powered over from close range after 76 minutes with Long booting the conversion to level the scores 16-16. Then Long added a superb drop goal after Briers had missed with a similar effort for the Wolves.
Saturday, 9 August 2008
Rhinos stun the Bulls
Leeds Rhinos made it four wins from four against Bradford Bulls this season with a 28-18 success at Headingley Carnegie.
Rhinos led 16-12 at the break.Bulls scored first when Paul Sykes crossed off quick handling by Andy Lynch and Ben Jeffries, Iestyn Harris converting.That came with both sides down to 12 men after Rob Burrow and Michael Platt had been sin-binned.Jordan Tansey's try, from Brent Webb's pass, cut the deficit, then Matt Diskin's break crated a try for Luke Burgess.A superb Jamie Peacock offload sent Nick Scruton over, Sinfield converting the second and third tries, to make it 16-6.But Harris kicks created tries for James Evans and Wayne Godwin either side of half-time, both converted by Harris to edge Bulls 18-16 ahead.Rhinos regained the lead on the hour when Carl Ablett touched down from Diskin's grubber, Burrow converting.Burrow crossed, but Keith Senior's pass was ruled forward, then Danny McGuire had a try disallowed for a double movement.Rhinos sealed it in the final minute when McGuire went over from a pass by Sinfield, who also converted.
Rhinos led 16-12 at the break.Bulls scored first when Paul Sykes crossed off quick handling by Andy Lynch and Ben Jeffries, Iestyn Harris converting.That came with both sides down to 12 men after Rob Burrow and Michael Platt had been sin-binned.Jordan Tansey's try, from Brent Webb's pass, cut the deficit, then Matt Diskin's break crated a try for Luke Burgess.A superb Jamie Peacock offload sent Nick Scruton over, Sinfield converting the second and third tries, to make it 16-6.But Harris kicks created tries for James Evans and Wayne Godwin either side of half-time, both converted by Harris to edge Bulls 18-16 ahead.Rhinos regained the lead on the hour when Carl Ablett touched down from Diskin's grubber, Burrow converting.Burrow crossed, but Keith Senior's pass was ruled forward, then Danny McGuire had a try disallowed for a double movement.Rhinos sealed it in the final minute when McGuire went over from a pass by Sinfield, who also converted.
Spirit of Rugby League Award
The inaugural award will be made posthumously to the former Great Britain and Warrington captain Mike Gregory who sadly passed away last year. In subsequent seasons, the award will be officially known as The Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award.
Both players and non-players will be eligible to receive the award, which will be judged by a panel from the sports' governing body, the RFL.
The Spirit of Rugby League Award will be presented at this year's engage Super League Man of Steel Ceremony (Tues 30th Sept) in Manchester by Mike Gregory's widow Mrs Erica Gregory. His parents will be present at the event to receive the award.
Commenting, the RFL's Director of Events and Projects Sally Bolton said, 'After taking soundings from various people throughout the sport and from within our organisation, the RFL believes it is the appropriate moment to introduce this very important award.
'Rugby League's values and qualities make the sport unique and we feel this new award will highlight these special attributes and honour those whose contribution to the game has been truly outstanding and upheld these important principles'.
Bolton added,'There can be no doubt that Mike Gregory is a worthy recipient of this inaugural award.
'Throughout his career as a player and coach his courage, dedication and professionalism combined with his openness, warmth and commitment to his community made him a special individual.
'We believe it is a fitting tribute to name the award after Mike and in future years the Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award will serve to highlight many outstanding individuals within our sport'.
In subsequent seasons The Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award may be presented at another major Rugby League occasion.
Both players and non-players will be eligible to receive the award, which will be judged by a panel from the sports' governing body, the RFL.
The Spirit of Rugby League Award will be presented at this year's engage Super League Man of Steel Ceremony (Tues 30th Sept) in Manchester by Mike Gregory's widow Mrs Erica Gregory. His parents will be present at the event to receive the award.
Commenting, the RFL's Director of Events and Projects Sally Bolton said, 'After taking soundings from various people throughout the sport and from within our organisation, the RFL believes it is the appropriate moment to introduce this very important award.
'Rugby League's values and qualities make the sport unique and we feel this new award will highlight these special attributes and honour those whose contribution to the game has been truly outstanding and upheld these important principles'.
Bolton added,'There can be no doubt that Mike Gregory is a worthy recipient of this inaugural award.
'Throughout his career as a player and coach his courage, dedication and professionalism combined with his openness, warmth and commitment to his community made him a special individual.
'We believe it is a fitting tribute to name the award after Mike and in future years the Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award will serve to highlight many outstanding individuals within our sport'.
In subsequent seasons The Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award may be presented at another major Rugby League occasion.
Cooke set for Rovers Return
Hull KR have announced controversial stand-off Paul Cooke will once again be considered for selection from this weekend.
The 27-year-old has sat out Rovers' last two Super League matches amid allegations over his off-field behaviour.
But after admitting that his conduct had been 'unprofessional', Cooke could make his return in this Sunday's game against Harlequins.
The decision to bring Cooke back into the fold follows discussions today between the player, head coach Justin Morgan and chairman Neil Hudgell.
"Regarding events of the past few weeks and following full and frank discussions with the club, I accept that my off-field behaviour has been unprofessional and have apologised to those concerned for that," the former England international said in a statement.
'I would also like to extend that apology to the supporters who have been tremendous since my arrival at the club.
'I firmly believe we can gain a top-six place in Super League and look forward to helping achieve that.'
Morgan hinted last Friday that Cooke, who has more than two years left to run on his Rovers contract, could still have a future at Craven Park if he dealt with personal problems.
Morgan said : 'The meeting was very positive and Paul particularly impressed me by showing a strong and genuine determination to make up for lost time and to get back to recapturing his best form.
'Whilst we will monitor the situation carefully, I expect Paul to play an important part for us between now and the end of the season and for the remainder of his contract.'
An in-form Cooke could be a major boost for Morgan with four games of the regular season left to play, and three points to make up on sixth-placed Bradford if Rovers want to clinch a spot in the play-offs.
The most recent controversy, which the club insist is now closed, is the latest of several in which the Hull-born player has been embroiled.
Most famously, Cooke was banned by the RFL for the first six games of this season after being found guilty of approaching Hull KR illegally before resigning as a player at Hull FC in April 2007.
He was recently banned from driving for 16 months after being found twice over the legal limit for alcohol, following on from previous convictions for assault and dangerous driving
The 27-year-old has sat out Rovers' last two Super League matches amid allegations over his off-field behaviour.
But after admitting that his conduct had been 'unprofessional', Cooke could make his return in this Sunday's game against Harlequins.
The decision to bring Cooke back into the fold follows discussions today between the player, head coach Justin Morgan and chairman Neil Hudgell.
"Regarding events of the past few weeks and following full and frank discussions with the club, I accept that my off-field behaviour has been unprofessional and have apologised to those concerned for that," the former England international said in a statement.
'I would also like to extend that apology to the supporters who have been tremendous since my arrival at the club.
'I firmly believe we can gain a top-six place in Super League and look forward to helping achieve that.'
Morgan hinted last Friday that Cooke, who has more than two years left to run on his Rovers contract, could still have a future at Craven Park if he dealt with personal problems.
Morgan said : 'The meeting was very positive and Paul particularly impressed me by showing a strong and genuine determination to make up for lost time and to get back to recapturing his best form.
'Whilst we will monitor the situation carefully, I expect Paul to play an important part for us between now and the end of the season and for the remainder of his contract.'
An in-form Cooke could be a major boost for Morgan with four games of the regular season left to play, and three points to make up on sixth-placed Bradford if Rovers want to clinch a spot in the play-offs.
The most recent controversy, which the club insist is now closed, is the latest of several in which the Hull-born player has been embroiled.
Most famously, Cooke was banned by the RFL for the first six games of this season after being found guilty of approaching Hull KR illegally before resigning as a player at Hull FC in April 2007.
He was recently banned from driving for 16 months after being found twice over the legal limit for alcohol, following on from previous convictions for assault and dangerous driving
Fozzard back in medal hunt.
NICK FOZZARD wants to bring the curtain down on his St Helens career in the best way — with another medal haul.
The prop returns tonight after six months out with a ruptured cruciate knee ligament for the start of his last hurrah with Saints.
Fozzard is leaving Knowsley Road at the end of the season after five years that have brought him two Super League titles, a hat-trick of Challenge Cups and a World Club Championship.
But he wants more and has come back ahead of schedule to achieve it.
Fozzard, 31, said: “It’s exciting for me, I could not have come back at a better time. There’s three games to go before the squad is picked for the Challenge Cup final at Wembley and I’m going to have a real go at getting into it.
“Then there’s the play-offs and the Grand Final, then the World Cup — what a time to come back and I definitely want to go out with a couple more winners’ medals under my belt to cap off a great career at St Helens.
“I’m definitely going. I can’t talk to anyone until August 31, so I’ve no idea where I’m going yet but I definitely want to play on and I want to join another top Super League club.”
Fozzard has not featured since suffering the knee injury at Bradford in February but coach Daniel Anderson knows the big fella is back.
He said: “One thing he brings is noise. He’s a very popular team member and great for team spirit. He’s also our biggest body. He’s completely injury free. It’s a huge boost for us because it’s like having a brand new recruit.”
Fozzard can immediately seal a place in the history books. Victory over Warrington tonight will be Saints’ 18th successive win — a record in the summer era.
The prospect of such an achievement could bring extra pressure but not at the table-toppers.
Fozzard added: “No one here really looks at records, we just enjoy playing every game.
“It does not matter who we play, we just have a lot of fun. That’s what it boils down to. At this club we don’t play under pressure.”
Saints’ epic displays and the prospect of being part of them again inspired Fozzard to recover more quickly.
He said: “It’s been a long time but I am finally back. It’s been really tough but it has been fun watching the lads play. They are scoring some great tries.”
The prop returns tonight after six months out with a ruptured cruciate knee ligament for the start of his last hurrah with Saints.
Fozzard is leaving Knowsley Road at the end of the season after five years that have brought him two Super League titles, a hat-trick of Challenge Cups and a World Club Championship.
But he wants more and has come back ahead of schedule to achieve it.
Fozzard, 31, said: “It’s exciting for me, I could not have come back at a better time. There’s three games to go before the squad is picked for the Challenge Cup final at Wembley and I’m going to have a real go at getting into it.
“Then there’s the play-offs and the Grand Final, then the World Cup — what a time to come back and I definitely want to go out with a couple more winners’ medals under my belt to cap off a great career at St Helens.
“I’m definitely going. I can’t talk to anyone until August 31, so I’ve no idea where I’m going yet but I definitely want to play on and I want to join another top Super League club.”
Fozzard has not featured since suffering the knee injury at Bradford in February but coach Daniel Anderson knows the big fella is back.
He said: “One thing he brings is noise. He’s a very popular team member and great for team spirit. He’s also our biggest body. He’s completely injury free. It’s a huge boost for us because it’s like having a brand new recruit.”
Fozzard can immediately seal a place in the history books. Victory over Warrington tonight will be Saints’ 18th successive win — a record in the summer era.
The prospect of such an achievement could bring extra pressure but not at the table-toppers.
Fozzard added: “No one here really looks at records, we just enjoy playing every game.
“It does not matter who we play, we just have a lot of fun. That’s what it boils down to. At this club we don’t play under pressure.”
Saints’ epic displays and the prospect of being part of them again inspired Fozzard to recover more quickly.
He said: “It’s been a long time but I am finally back. It’s been really tough but it has been fun watching the lads play. They are scoring some great tries.”
Gleeson takes an oath to haunt Saints
Martin Gleeson will keep his celebrations low-key even if he finally tastes victory against his former club St Helens tonight. Warrington's England centre has offered hard evidence of his determination to shed his reputation as a wayward talent by going teetotal for the last three months, and already both club and country have reaped the benefits. Gleeson scored a stylish hat-trick in England's 56-8 win against France in June, and he has helped Warrington to a run of seven wins in eight since James Lowes took over as coach.
"He tells me it's 14 weeks since he's had a beer," said Gleeson's captain Adrian Morley. "I take my hat off to him because he's been running hot and definitely our stand-out back. He's a world-class centre."
However, Warrington have not beaten St Helens since Gleeson joined them for £200,000 in 2004, and despite their own impressive form which reached a new high with last Saturday's home victory against Leeds, they will be rank outsiders again tonight given Saints' even more formidable record of 17 straight wins.
They have already lost three times to Saints this season but Gleeson did not play on their last visit to Knowsley Road, for a Challenge Cup thriller in May when despite his absence with a virus the team were pipped 40-34, suggesting that his class could have made the difference - and possibly also kept Lowes's predecessor Paul Cullen in his job. Both teams welcome back long-term injury absentees as Paul Wood returns to the Wolves pack after a series of shoulder problems, and Nick Fozzard is recalled by Saints following a knee operation.
St Helens will again be without their captain Paul Sculthorpe and have a doubt over Maurie Fa'asavalu, but Gleeson's former betting partner Sean Long is set to return after missing last week's win at Wakefield with the mumps. Wigan have prop Paul Prescott, who was named in Ireland's preliminary World Cup squad, returning in tonight's other game against the Catalans Dragons in Perpignan after three months out with back problems which were finally solved by an epidural.
"I know that it's pregnant women who usually have them, but I'm not bothered because it worked," said the 22-year-old. The Catalans had no fewer than 20 of their players included in Les Tricolores' provisional 40-man World Cup squad, including Justin Murphy and John Wilson, Australians who qualify on residential grounds.
Two more of the 10 nations who will be competing in Australia this autumn, Fiji and New Zealand, also went public with their initial squads yesterday. Bradford's wing Semi Tadulala is joined in the Fiji party by Netani Suka and Tabua Cakacaka, who have helped Gateshead Thunder to the top of National League Two, while Wigan's Thomas Leuluai and the Leeds full-back Brent Webb are the only two British-based players in the Kiwi list.
Jeremy Smith, the South Sydney scrum-half who has been omitted by New Zealand's coach Stephen Kearney after winning three Test caps for the Kiwis under Gary Kemble last year, will join Salford in the Super League next season.
"He tells me it's 14 weeks since he's had a beer," said Gleeson's captain Adrian Morley. "I take my hat off to him because he's been running hot and definitely our stand-out back. He's a world-class centre."
However, Warrington have not beaten St Helens since Gleeson joined them for £200,000 in 2004, and despite their own impressive form which reached a new high with last Saturday's home victory against Leeds, they will be rank outsiders again tonight given Saints' even more formidable record of 17 straight wins.
They have already lost three times to Saints this season but Gleeson did not play on their last visit to Knowsley Road, for a Challenge Cup thriller in May when despite his absence with a virus the team were pipped 40-34, suggesting that his class could have made the difference - and possibly also kept Lowes's predecessor Paul Cullen in his job. Both teams welcome back long-term injury absentees as Paul Wood returns to the Wolves pack after a series of shoulder problems, and Nick Fozzard is recalled by Saints following a knee operation.
St Helens will again be without their captain Paul Sculthorpe and have a doubt over Maurie Fa'asavalu, but Gleeson's former betting partner Sean Long is set to return after missing last week's win at Wakefield with the mumps. Wigan have prop Paul Prescott, who was named in Ireland's preliminary World Cup squad, returning in tonight's other game against the Catalans Dragons in Perpignan after three months out with back problems which were finally solved by an epidural.
"I know that it's pregnant women who usually have them, but I'm not bothered because it worked," said the 22-year-old. The Catalans had no fewer than 20 of their players included in Les Tricolores' provisional 40-man World Cup squad, including Justin Murphy and John Wilson, Australians who qualify on residential grounds.
Two more of the 10 nations who will be competing in Australia this autumn, Fiji and New Zealand, also went public with their initial squads yesterday. Bradford's wing Semi Tadulala is joined in the Fiji party by Netani Suka and Tabua Cakacaka, who have helped Gateshead Thunder to the top of National League Two, while Wigan's Thomas Leuluai and the Leeds full-back Brent Webb are the only two British-based players in the Kiwi list.
Jeremy Smith, the South Sydney scrum-half who has been omitted by New Zealand's coach Stephen Kearney after winning three Test caps for the Kiwis under Gary Kemble last year, will join Salford in the Super League next season.
Sunday, 3 August 2008
The Licensing System Explained
The way forward for engage Super League
After the 2008 season, a new structure will be introduced to engage Super League with the ultimate aim of improving standards both in the elite competition and at all levels of Rugby League in this country.
What is meant by ‘licensing’?
From 2009 only clubs who have been awarded a ‘licence’ by the independent RFL Board will participate in the engage Super League competition.
Each licence will last for three years. This will mean an end to the system of promotion and relegation that currently exists.
The composition of each League will be determined by another method. However there will be opportunities for clubs to move between The Co-operative National Leagues One and Two each season. There will also still be opportunities for Co-operative National League clubs to move into Super League every three seasons.
To be granted a Super League license, clubs will have to show that their organisations meet a number of standards.
What are the criteria and standards for membership of engage Super League in 2009 and who will decide which teams are admitted?
Clubs applying to join the 2009 Super League competition will be assessed against the following four areas:
• Stadium facilities.
• Finance and business performance.
• Commercial and marketing.
• Playing strength including junior production and development.
The fact that certain clubs applying for a license potentially may not have played in Super League before will also be taken into account.
The independent RFL Board of Directors will evaluate the bids and determine who gains membership to engage Super League 2009.
Are the clubs and the game as a whole happy with this new system?
Clubs in both the engage Super League and The Co-operative National League have been consulted over a long period about the introduction of this system.
After hearing all the details about the new system, they have formally approved the process that will see the RFL Board of Directors to making a decision in the best interests of Rugby League as a whole.
In particular, during a series of recent meetings, The Co-operative National League clubs have shown they are collectively comfortable with the introduction of the new system and the decisions being taken in this way.
Which teams can apply for a license?
The policy for UK based clubs is that they have to be in The Co-operative National League One during the 2008 season to apply.
To secure a place, member clubs currently playing in engage Super League have also had to apply for a license.
Clearly clubs based outside the UK and thus currently not involved in The Co-operative National League or engage Super League have different circumstances as they cannot reach the minimum level required of UK based clubs.
Despite this, any applications from outside the UK will be judged by the independent RFL board under the same process as UK based applications.
What are the benefits of licensing?
The RFL and clubs in both engage Super League and The Co-operative National League believe the new system will bring a number of key benefits.
Clubs will be able to invest properly in junior player production, stadium and training facilities and enhanced club management, rather than have the short term emphasis on recruiting established players to avoid dropping out of the elite competition.
In many cases these players are from overseas and thus the strength of the game in the UK is reduced and often damaged.
Also, a three year license creates the opportunity for clubs to plan for the long term and not take short term decisions to avoid ‘the drop’. Knee-Jerk recruiting of overseas players to bolster squads is often at the expense of bringing young talent through the system.
The international team are also likely beneficiaries of a ‘licensing’ system. With more young players receiving experience of highly competitive professional Rugby League, the depth of talent available to the representative teams will grow.
The overall effect will be to drive continuous improvement of the standard of Rugby League in the UK.
The new system will also create more opportunities for engage Super League clubs to be well run and managed and create high quality infrastructure to provide players, staff, spectators and media with well appointed, well equipped and safe working environments.
Clubs will have a stable platform to work towards the highest standards of financial and business management of their organisations including promoting the highest standards in commercial, marketing and community programmes.
The collective business strength of (Super League (Europe) Limited) will also grow.
What is wrong with the current system?
The current promotion and relegation system presents problems because of the disparity in standards and resources between the two Leagues.
Promotion is currently fundamentally determined only by on-field issues – with some stadium criteria being taken into account. This means that clubs chasing a place in the top division might be tempted to invest a disproportionate amount of resource into player recruitment as opposed to a more holistic approach to club/business development that benefits not only the club itself but the whole game.
This approach also damages the National League competition by placing the wrong emphasis on the competition. It is seen as purely a means to an end (i.e. promotion to Super League). Not as a valuable and important sporting competition which is very worthwhile winning.
Again it’s important to remember that the professional clubs agreed this approach to structuring the sport’s domestic competitions in 2005 and that they would be assessed against set criteria and determine membership of Super League from 2009.
How long will a license last for and can it be withdrawn?
A licence will INITIALLY be for three years however, the independent RFL Board will have the right to revoke a club’s membership if need be at any stage.
Although the reasons for this are still to be finalised it is likely to include insolvency, contractual breach, persistent under performance and possibly persistent rule breaking.
Any ‘failing’ club who has its membership removed could be replaced by a ‘successful’ club from outside engage Super League.
All clubs will be reassessed in 2011 before licenses are awarded for the 2012-2014 seasons.
What does this mean for clubs who don’t achieve Super League status in 2009?
Although it is anticipated that the engage Super League in 2009 will have 14 teams there is no upper limit on membership. Also, a club can be removed and replaced.
Therefore, if a club is meeting the expected criteria for an engage Super League licence and, it makes financial sense for all clubs involved in the competition to accept a new member, then the size of Super League may be expanded. However, this should not be detrimental to the overall quality of the competition and depth of playing talent.
All clubs will have the ability to re-apply in three years time and the RFL believes the Co-operative National League competition has tremendous value and prestige which can only continue to grow. The changes to the structure of the sport will also make The Co-operative National Leagues more competitive. Teams will compete on a more level playing field, rather than having League One dominated by the team relegated from engage Super League.
Also the ‘Yo-Yo’ system which has shown to be very damaging to clubs can be stopped and clubs at all levels can plan for the long term.
The RFL and the clubs in The Co-operative National League will work in partnership to add further value to the sport at this level so it becomes a competition to win its own right.
Don’t forget also that consistent strong performance on and off the field will put clubs in a good position to possibly gain an engage Super League licence in the future.
During the 2007 season The Co-operative National League benefited greatly from regular live TV exposure and in the recently agreed extension to the broadcast agreement with Sky Sports, the RFL has delivered an increase on this.
After the 2008 season, a new structure will be introduced to engage Super League with the ultimate aim of improving standards both in the elite competition and at all levels of Rugby League in this country.
What is meant by ‘licensing’?
From 2009 only clubs who have been awarded a ‘licence’ by the independent RFL Board will participate in the engage Super League competition.
Each licence will last for three years. This will mean an end to the system of promotion and relegation that currently exists.
The composition of each League will be determined by another method. However there will be opportunities for clubs to move between The Co-operative National Leagues One and Two each season. There will also still be opportunities for Co-operative National League clubs to move into Super League every three seasons.
To be granted a Super League license, clubs will have to show that their organisations meet a number of standards.
What are the criteria and standards for membership of engage Super League in 2009 and who will decide which teams are admitted?
Clubs applying to join the 2009 Super League competition will be assessed against the following four areas:
• Stadium facilities.
• Finance and business performance.
• Commercial and marketing.
• Playing strength including junior production and development.
The fact that certain clubs applying for a license potentially may not have played in Super League before will also be taken into account.
The independent RFL Board of Directors will evaluate the bids and determine who gains membership to engage Super League 2009.
Are the clubs and the game as a whole happy with this new system?
Clubs in both the engage Super League and The Co-operative National League have been consulted over a long period about the introduction of this system.
After hearing all the details about the new system, they have formally approved the process that will see the RFL Board of Directors to making a decision in the best interests of Rugby League as a whole.
In particular, during a series of recent meetings, The Co-operative National League clubs have shown they are collectively comfortable with the introduction of the new system and the decisions being taken in this way.
Which teams can apply for a license?
The policy for UK based clubs is that they have to be in The Co-operative National League One during the 2008 season to apply.
To secure a place, member clubs currently playing in engage Super League have also had to apply for a license.
Clearly clubs based outside the UK and thus currently not involved in The Co-operative National League or engage Super League have different circumstances as they cannot reach the minimum level required of UK based clubs.
Despite this, any applications from outside the UK will be judged by the independent RFL board under the same process as UK based applications.
What are the benefits of licensing?
The RFL and clubs in both engage Super League and The Co-operative National League believe the new system will bring a number of key benefits.
Clubs will be able to invest properly in junior player production, stadium and training facilities and enhanced club management, rather than have the short term emphasis on recruiting established players to avoid dropping out of the elite competition.
In many cases these players are from overseas and thus the strength of the game in the UK is reduced and often damaged.
Also, a three year license creates the opportunity for clubs to plan for the long term and not take short term decisions to avoid ‘the drop’. Knee-Jerk recruiting of overseas players to bolster squads is often at the expense of bringing young talent through the system.
The international team are also likely beneficiaries of a ‘licensing’ system. With more young players receiving experience of highly competitive professional Rugby League, the depth of talent available to the representative teams will grow.
The overall effect will be to drive continuous improvement of the standard of Rugby League in the UK.
The new system will also create more opportunities for engage Super League clubs to be well run and managed and create high quality infrastructure to provide players, staff, spectators and media with well appointed, well equipped and safe working environments.
Clubs will have a stable platform to work towards the highest standards of financial and business management of their organisations including promoting the highest standards in commercial, marketing and community programmes.
The collective business strength of (Super League (Europe) Limited) will also grow.
What is wrong with the current system?
The current promotion and relegation system presents problems because of the disparity in standards and resources between the two Leagues.
Promotion is currently fundamentally determined only by on-field issues – with some stadium criteria being taken into account. This means that clubs chasing a place in the top division might be tempted to invest a disproportionate amount of resource into player recruitment as opposed to a more holistic approach to club/business development that benefits not only the club itself but the whole game.
This approach also damages the National League competition by placing the wrong emphasis on the competition. It is seen as purely a means to an end (i.e. promotion to Super League). Not as a valuable and important sporting competition which is very worthwhile winning.
Again it’s important to remember that the professional clubs agreed this approach to structuring the sport’s domestic competitions in 2005 and that they would be assessed against set criteria and determine membership of Super League from 2009.
How long will a license last for and can it be withdrawn?
A licence will INITIALLY be for three years however, the independent RFL Board will have the right to revoke a club’s membership if need be at any stage.
Although the reasons for this are still to be finalised it is likely to include insolvency, contractual breach, persistent under performance and possibly persistent rule breaking.
Any ‘failing’ club who has its membership removed could be replaced by a ‘successful’ club from outside engage Super League.
All clubs will be reassessed in 2011 before licenses are awarded for the 2012-2014 seasons.
What does this mean for clubs who don’t achieve Super League status in 2009?
Although it is anticipated that the engage Super League in 2009 will have 14 teams there is no upper limit on membership. Also, a club can be removed and replaced.
Therefore, if a club is meeting the expected criteria for an engage Super League licence and, it makes financial sense for all clubs involved in the competition to accept a new member, then the size of Super League may be expanded. However, this should not be detrimental to the overall quality of the competition and depth of playing talent.
All clubs will have the ability to re-apply in three years time and the RFL believes the Co-operative National League competition has tremendous value and prestige which can only continue to grow. The changes to the structure of the sport will also make The Co-operative National Leagues more competitive. Teams will compete on a more level playing field, rather than having League One dominated by the team relegated from engage Super League.
Also the ‘Yo-Yo’ system which has shown to be very damaging to clubs can be stopped and clubs at all levels can plan for the long term.
The RFL and the clubs in The Co-operative National League will work in partnership to add further value to the sport at this level so it becomes a competition to win its own right.
Don’t forget also that consistent strong performance on and off the field will put clubs in a good position to possibly gain an engage Super League licence in the future.
During the 2007 season The Co-operative National League benefited greatly from regular live TV exposure and in the recently agreed extension to the broadcast agreement with Sky Sports, the RFL has delivered an increase on this.
Saints go Two Points Clear at The Top
St Helens thrashed Wakefield 42 - 10 to record their 17th successive victory and move two points clear of Leeds Rhinos at the top of the Super League table.
Saints led 30-0 at the break with tries from Chris Flannery, Jon Wilkin, James Roby, James Graham and Paul Clough.
Wakefield, who slipped to their fifth straight defeat, responded with scores from Brett Ferres and Brad Drew.
But Saints proved too strong as Kyle Eastmond and Keiron Cunningham added some gloss to the scoreline.
Eastmond's score was the pick of the bunch, the 19-year-old showing awesome speed as he raced 80 metres for an intercept try.
The highly rated half-back, deputising for Sean Long at scrum-half, was at the heart of St Helens' slick display with his passes creating openings for Flannery and Wilkin to score.
Roby then barged over the line and Graham scored after the Wildcats failed to deal with a high kick from Eastmond, who also kicked six goals.
Clough took Roby's intelligent pass to conclude the first-half scoring, with Eastmond converting all five tries.
The Wildcats finally got on the scoreboard as Danny Brough sent Ferres over - but it was a pass from Brough that Eastmond intercepted for his try.
Drew scored under the posts but Cunningham then crossed for Saints, with Matt Gidley converting.
Saints led 30-0 at the break with tries from Chris Flannery, Jon Wilkin, James Roby, James Graham and Paul Clough.
Wakefield, who slipped to their fifth straight defeat, responded with scores from Brett Ferres and Brad Drew.
But Saints proved too strong as Kyle Eastmond and Keiron Cunningham added some gloss to the scoreline.
Eastmond's score was the pick of the bunch, the 19-year-old showing awesome speed as he raced 80 metres for an intercept try.
The highly rated half-back, deputising for Sean Long at scrum-half, was at the heart of St Helens' slick display with his passes creating openings for Flannery and Wilkin to score.
Roby then barged over the line and Graham scored after the Wildcats failed to deal with a high kick from Eastmond, who also kicked six goals.
Clough took Roby's intelligent pass to conclude the first-half scoring, with Eastmond converting all five tries.
The Wildcats finally got on the scoreboard as Danny Brough sent Ferres over - but it was a pass from Brough that Eastmond intercepted for his try.
Drew scored under the posts but Cunningham then crossed for Saints, with Matt Gidley converting.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
