Paul Wellens reveals St Helens’ secret weapons ahead of “alien” experience

Paul Wellens starts his coaching career with perhaps the most difficult task: beating NRL Champions Penrith Panthers down under.

For three years now, the Panthers have been almost unbeatable and have won back-to-back Grand Finals.

So, to beat them in their own back yard will require a special effort.

However, Wellens has revealed the ace up his sleeve with the connections the club has down under set to prove crucial.

“We have a lot of connections down under with people who have worked for the club and could help us out and we are in touch we a lot of people in that respects, we are touching on all those resources and keeping an eye on how Penrith are playing,” he said.

“I watch the NRL but not all the players so it could be alien to them.”

He also acknowledged the size of the challenge but how much he and his side are looking forward to it:

“Certainly a different start to a coaching career. I have said on a number of occasions that they’ve earnt it not just on last year but previous years too.

“So to get this challenge against a formidable side like Penrith, we’re super excited.

“It would be fantastic to win it, it was a different challenge when I was a player then because we did it in the UK as a player.

“This groups loves a challenge and we go down in most people’s minds we go down as underdogs so it would be great for the club.”