According to Paul Wellens, the Totally Wicked Stadium’s pitch is in no worse shape than any other Super League stadium. Following his remarks that his players are still “heavy-legged” after Friday’s match, Leigh Leopards manager Adrian Lam was questioned by the head coach of St Helens on the condition of the surface.
After a hard-fought 12–4 loss, Lam says he had multiple concerns from his players early this week regarding calf discomfort. Tom Briscoe and John Asiata were sidelined for several weeks due to calf injuries. The Saints are the ones who bear the responsibility, according to the Leythers, who even “re-arranged their schedule to ensure they’re freshened up” for this week’s match against Leeds Rhinos.
Wellens dismissed Lam’s worries, saying the pitch ‘has to be looked at.’ During his weekly press conference, Wellens stated: “It is not necessary to verify.” It has been examined, and no doubt it will be examined once more.
Regretfully, the field isn’t in the ideal condition right now. We recognise it and are aware of the difficulties it presents. Our ground crew is putting in endless effort to try and do all within their power to try and restore the surface to its optimal state. All we can do is that. I also watched a bunch of Super League matches. We’re not the only club dealing with those issues, for sure.
Wellens also addressed Konrad Hurell’s suspension, citing the center’s absence from the Saints’ round four match against Salford Red Devils due to a head hit with Rickey Leutele, the centre for Leigh.
He clarified, “It’s the way the game has gone.” There wasn’t much that Konrad could have done differently, in my opinion. But as a game, we know where we are right now. In terms of Grade B head-to-head contact, it was at the bottom of the charge. There was interaction. We acknowledge that. We continue. Although Konrad would have like to play this week, that is the obstacle we must overcome.
On the injury front, St Helens had some good news as well. Curtis Sironen was sidelined last week due to a back problem. Waqa Blake (illness), Matty Lees (lung infection), and Joe Batchelor (collar bone) are among those who are attempting to make a comeback.
“Curtis has become better,” Wellens continued. “After participating in some training, it appears that he will be ready to play. We hope he has made it through, but we will have to check on him again in the morning.
Waqa is once again in the running. He is in good health and is prepared to depart. Matty needs to be evaluated, but we may need to wait another week. We must take the situation into consideration. He’s had several hospital stays due to infections over the past several difficult months. We want to make sure Matty is prepared for his return.
Joe is progressing well. He’s now making a little more contact. We’re hoping he’ll be ready for the Leeds match if he keeps going in the correct direction. If not, the following week is most likely when it will happen.”
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