Jonny Lomax v Sam Tomkins
Lomax has been a crucial part of the Saints revival under Keiron Cunningham, with the fullback nearing his best form once again following a horrendous few years with injury. However, he will face a stern test tonight against Wigan star Tomkins, who will be pivotal to the Warriors’ chances of getting one over on their fierce rivals. Which fullback will be the standout of the pair – and potentially give their England chances a real nudge in the process?
John Bateman v Joe Greenwood
English Rugby League is blessed with some phenomenal back-rowers at this moment in time, and two of the most exciting will clash at the DW Stadium tonight. John Bateman has quickly got back to his best following his suspension, but in Joe Greenwood, the Saints have a forward who has quickly asserted himself as one of the key components of Keiron Cunningham’s side. If Greenwood can play a key part in winning the forward battle tonight, it will go a long way to handing victory to the Saints.
Theo Fages v Matty Smith
Fages will get his chance to step into the shoes of in-form Luke Walsh tonight following Saints’ decision not to appeal the two-match ban handed out to the Australian. But given the blistering form of the Saints of late it’s easy to forget that Fages was playing well for Keiron Cunningham’s side before he got injured. Opposite him is Matty Smith, who will again be looking to flourish in the big-game environment to remind Wayne Bennett he is a contender for the halves when it comes to England contention later this year.
