Rush ready for massive game

St Helens coach Mike Rush knows how important Friday’s trip to Catalan is ahead of the season run-in.

Following a difficult start to the season, which included that dramatic after-the-hooter defeat at home to the Dragons in March, Rush has steadied the ship at Langtree Park, helping Saints climb from 9th to 4th in the table, just two points behind Friday’s opponents.

He told the club’s official website: “With it being fourth versus third, it’s teed up nicely isn’t it? It’s a big game for both clubs. We can peg them back level on points and if they win, they can put some distance between them and us. It is a massive game for both clubs.

“We have played well recently but need to make sure we put in some good performances. We have spoken about that all week because this is the time we need to be hitting some form. We have to stamp our authority on games and make sure we dominate in the areas we can.”

Saints picked up a narrow 24-23 win over Widnes last time out, and are expected to welcome back half-back Jonny Lomax, who missed the game at the Stobart Stadium.

They could still have a say on the destination of the league leaders’ shield, with Rush’s men due to meet Warrington on August 6th and arch-rivals Wigan on September 7th.