Wellens expects exciting opener

Paul Wellens expects nothing less than an exciting and tough challenge under the Millennium Stadium roof when Saints take on Wigan to open Super League XVI.

He will line up against the reigning Super League champions at 7pm on Saturday February 12 in a repeat of the Grand Final which the ‘old enemy’ won at the Millennium Magic event in Cardiff.

But the 30-year-old full back, who was recently named in the 17 Greatest Players ever to appear for the club, reckons there will be no hint of revenge.

“It will be a tough game and a superb opener for Super League and both clubs, that’s for sure,” he said. “It is the biggest club game in world rugby league and will be a fantastic spectacle for everyone there.

“Everyone knows the history between the two sides and that does give the game a real edge, but we’ll be putting that aside and just wanting to start the season with a bang.

“We have a strong squad and with Josh Perry, Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook and Michael Shenton joining us we want to make another push for silverware.

“It is a fantastic venue and I’m sure the fans will flock down to support the Saints.”