Barrie McDermott labels Super League side as “inspiring” but doesn’t buy into narrative around them

Barrie McDermott has said that Super League and World Champions St Helens are “inspiring.”

This came after the win over Huddersfield Giants in a difficult battle at the John Smith’s Stadium.

He also said that he doesn’t think the Saints are at 10/10 yet but will get there soon.

McDermott said on Sky Sports:

“They’re inspiring in many ways, some individuals like Matty Lees knocking up 68 tackles and not third man in like I used to do, they’re full blooded, full on contact and it is inspiring.

“I think they were about a seven out of 10, you’re going to score through the likes of Konrad Hurrell and they have some real quality in their side.

“They are cruising at the minute, I don’t buy this narrative that they’re in a hangover from the World Club Challenge, that was weeks ago.

“They don’t need to be 10/10, when they come here to play Wigan they will be nine or 10 out of 10s.”

This came as Jamie Jones-Buchanan praised the Wigan Warriors for “pioneering” in the game:

“That’s what I love about Wigan, they are pioneering, they give us that access into what goes on behind the scenes.

“Life is a big narrative, people love stories, let’s share those stories with people who come and pay the money to come watch the game.

“They are the future for me. It isn’t a race to the bottom, or being better than other clubs, it is about being as good as they can be.”

Jon Wells explained this further:

“They have offered us a window into the game week. In short Matt Peet has shared with me the game plan for Wigan.

“He didn’t want to share opposition specific stuff because he felt that was disrespectful but what he relayed to his players in the dressing room I will relay to you.”