SAINTS have wasted no time at all in identifying a replacement for the departing gaffer Justin Holbrook.

It’s been reported that the former Cronulla Sharks boss Shane Flanagan is among the leading candidates to take over from Justin, who is to take over the Gold Coast Titans at the end of our Betfred Super League season.

I’m sure there will be a number of candidates both from England and Australia who would love the job.

Before I go on, congratulations are in order after we duly beat Wakefield to go 12 points clear and subsequently retain the League Leaders’ Shield.

We were helped of course by second-placed Warrington falling 30-10 at Catalans in a game that will be long remembered for the fiery affair on the field and some disgusting scenes off it.

Rugby league promotes itself as a family sport – and this hooliganism has no place in our great game.

In a sport where we have always led the way in respect both on and off the field, the scenes in Catalan, which were obviously witnessed by TV viewers around the world need to be dealt with harshly.

I hope both clubs pinpoint those involved and deal with them accordingly.

Back to the Betfred Super League, and undoubtedly the tie of the round sees one play two, as Saints travel to Warrington...only two weeks before the sides meet in the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.

It is always an interesting fixture when playing an opposition only a couple of weeks before a final…especially now the top spot is secured.

Justin Holbrook you go full strength and look for a dominant win, or not risk key players and show them too much!

With virtually nothing to play for other than keeping form, I’m sure Justin will do the latter!

His squad rotation has served him well this year and given some invaluable game time to several of our up and coming stars.

I’m going for a Saints triumph by eight points (11/10 at Betfred)

Finally, a special mention to one of the opposition…Warrington stalwart Benny Westwood.

At the ripe old age of 38 he had decided this will be his last season.

No matter who you support you couldn’t help but admire Ben’s competitive streak and his love of rugby league.

He has been a great servant to our sport and wish him well in life after rugby.

Let’s hope he can sign off on the big stage...with a couple of runners up medals!