The training camp has been buzzing in recent weeks with a strong squad, bolstered by several attractive signings, all excited by the prospect of an explosive entrance into the new, higher division. Yesterday's warm up match against a strong Mold outfit will give coach McKinney some cause for concern. Saints started well with an early, surging break by Sammy Russell to send Charlie Hough in for great try but strong rucking and mauling by Mold soon got them back on terms.

Saints did contrive some exciting phases of play but, all too often, their incisive moves broke down at the final pass. Mold, on the other hand, barely put a foot wrong and, without a recognised jackal at 7, Saints could not break-down their continuity at the ruck.

Saints failure to hang onto the ball and Mold's refusal to give it up meant that the result was inevitable, Mold winning this warm-up contest by 5 tries to 3.

However, although an important exercise for the new, expanded squad, it was still a training exercise and nothing, other than a little pride, was lost. The 4 x 20mins format, with a much changed line-up for each segment, disrupted our continuity but it did give the coaches the opportunity to assess form ahead of the season proper.

Head coach McKinney, will be pleased by the performances of some key players, Stead, Isaacs, Nonu and especially Price who all staked strong claims to shirts for the opening test of the season away at Northwich in the Cheshire Vase on 25 August.

Before then, though, is a second warm-up game against Collegiate on Tuesday 21 August at Riveacre Park, K.O. 7pm. The coaches will have something to work on and the team will certainly know what is needed to get back on track.