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.
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