Super League play-off semi-finals: Four sides battle for Old Trafford place

St Helens travel to Hull KR having spent most of the latter stages of their play-off eliminator at Leeds Rhinos believing they would not reach the semi-finals.

Paul Wellens’ side caused a huge upset when, after the hooter had sounded for full-time, they kept the ball alive and fed the ball to Shane Wright after a whopping 16 passes for him to score the try to send them through.

Wellens told BBC Radio Merseyside their experience at Headingley last week had made his side dare to dream when they travel to Craven Park.

“It’s given us a lot of belief going into this game, although we’re under no illusions over how tough the game is going to be,” he said.

“Hull KR have been the benchmark team throughout most of the year, both with and without the ball.

“It’s a difficult place to go and play, it’s a very hostile atmosphere. We’ve got to view that very differently. It’s a great challenge for us and a wonderful opportunity.

“We’ve been boosted by a fantastic win in great circumstances at the weekend and that gives a lot of belief going into the game.”

St Helens have received criticism for not being able to see out games against the leading teams this term, but Wellens points to last weekend’s game against Leeds and their regular season win against Rhinos in July, as examples of where they have overcome real quality.

He added: “I think externally there’s a lot of opinions about us but internally we don’t share the same feelings that people outside of this environment do.

“I consider going to Leeds and winning a play-off and going there a few weeks earlier as winning big games.

“Certain opposition have had our number in recent history which I’ll accept. But we have that belief going into Hull KR at the weekend.”