St.Helens Head Coach Paul Wellens speaks to the press ahead of this Friday’s Betfred Challenge Cup match against Leeds Rhinos.
Our Red V return to the home of the Rhinos for the second time in seven days after securing a comeback victory over the West Yorkshire club last Friday night. Saints secured two important league points coming from 8-0 to win 8-18, with an improved second-half effort.
This Friday’s fixture is a different beast as it is knockout rugby in the Challenge Cup, and with Leeds hurting and wanting to get one back over the Saints, it’s going to be another tough challenge for Paul Wellens’ troops. However the ‘allure’ of the Cup is not lost on Wellens or his players, and it’s a trophy that we are aiming to add more special memories to our rich history in the competition.
Wellens revealed that winger Tommy Makinson is highly unlikely to make his matchday squad, but did provide positive news that Curtis Sironen after missing out last week could be set to return and feature.
The Saints boss also talks about the challenge of facing the same opponent in back-t0-back weeks, how Leeds were very good in the opening half hour of the league match, and that we need to be better to not give them such a good opening again this week. Our Head Coach also pays credit again to the travelling supporters who made the trip on Friday night in horrible conditions under no cover at Headingley.
Watch a preview of this Saints TV premium interview below!
