Savelio: We have a point to prove

Andre Savelio says St Helens showed South Sydney too much respect last year in the World Club Series but the Super League side won’t be making the same mistake on Friday against the Roosters.

St Helens were humbled 39-0 in 2015 at Langtree Park by an impressive Rabbitohs outfit. Savelio came off the bench for Saints on that evening but could do little to reverse the one-sided result.

This weekend St Helens are pitted against the Roosters, minor premiers in the NRL for the last three seasons and coached by former Catalans mentor Trent Robinson

They are also coming off a disappointing display against Salford last week.

The forward believes his team has a point to prove this year against NRL opposition.

“This time we’re going into it with a bit more confidence than we did last time against Souths,” Savelio said.

“They had respect but I think we showed them a bit too much I think. This time we’ll just back ourselves a bit more and give it a real good go, because I don’t think last time was a true reflection of what we did on the day.

“We’ve got a point to prove.”

Saints prop Lama Tasi will face his old club that he made 30 appearances for from 2011 to 2013.

Savelio is looking forward to testing himself against the Roosters, particularly their monster forward pack that is filled with internationals.

Kiwi props Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Sam Moa and Suaia Matagi lead the line for the Tricolours, who also boast the likes of Dylan Napa, Aidan Guerra, Boyd Cordner and Kane Evans up front.

The 20-year old enforcer is excited to get the opportunity to compete with a host of NRL talent.

“They’re obviously world-class,” Savelio said.

“The backline and the forwards from 1 to 13 they’ve got world-class players but I think for us, we’ve just have to do our jobs. 

“It’ll be a good test for us. I’m looking forward to it. Not only as individuals but as a team in terms of world status I guess.”