In a repeat of the 2019 Super League Grand Final, St Helens will host Salford Red Devils in the Super League semi-finals in 2022.
The Saints are of course the favourites as the Champions over the last three years having begun their reign against the Red Devils back at Old Trafford in the aforementioned Grand Final contest.
However, Salford, as they were in 2019, are riding the crest of a wave in 2022 with a tidal wave of momentum pushing them on to the impossible.
But can their impossible dream remain a reality as the Red Devils journey over to St Helens for a mouth watering semi-final.
Paul Rowley understands the enormity of the task his side have ahead of them as he addressed after victory over Huddersfield yesterday and he believes his side will be up against the greatest player in Super League history in the shape of Dream Team hooker James Roby.
“James Roby has been the best player to grace Super League in my opinion,” Rowley said when looking ahead to next week’s semi-final.
This came after he had spoken positively about his own number nine in Andy Ackers who will be facing an exciting challenge against Roby.
On this, Rowley said: “I think for Andy Ackers, all he’s going to concentrate on is himself. Full respect given but our player will play his game and we won’t be judged on anything other than that.”
Despite having faith in his side, Rowley felt it important to acknowledge the threat that the Saints will pose: “St Helens are the Champions and have been for several years. We talk a lot about St Helens and the reason why is because they’re the benchmark. I’m sure we’re not the only one. We try and work to get near to what they do week after week.
“Nothing new. We’re back as the underdog.
“You can’t sneak your way to anything worth winning.”
