Super League

“I didn’t like all the attention” – humble James Roby reflects on 500th appearance

by
Cam Pattison
April 2, 2022

Last night James Roby made his 500th appearance further cementing his status as one of the all time greats.

He was at the heart of the game too underpinning everything good that Saints did as they defeated rivals Leeds Rhinos 26-0 in a statement win from the Champions.

As strong and as quick as ever out of dummyhalf, coach Kristian Woolf lorded his skipper after the game noting that he could not think of a game where the hooker wasn’t at least an eight out of ten during his time at the club.

A five time Super League Champion, Roby is determined to become the first captain in Super League history to guide his side to four consecutive titles in what will be his last year as a professional.

After last night’s game, Saints look well placed to do just that but Roby’s thoughts were in the here and now as he looked back on a special night.

“Really glad to get that win,” Roby told Saints TV after the game, “I thought it was a great performance to be honest, defensively I thought we were outstanding and scored some fantastic tries, really pleasing to keep Leeds to nil.

“It was a great occasion that I’ll probably look back on and reflect on but really really enjoyed it especially going to the fans at the end there with the shirt, I’ll remember that for a long time.

“I didn’t like all the attention but it is what it is and I have got to be proud of the fact that I’ve made 500 appearances. I’m very lucky to be involved with a club like St Helens and involved with the quality people that I am. So proud to be a part of this team.”