It has been a tough week for "The McGovernator," Head Coach, Liam McGovern. He is on standby for the imminent new addition to his young family. The Saints "family" wishes his wife and Liam all the best for a quick and trouble-free result.

For today's fixture, away at Aspull, the Saints' team has been remodelled due to an unprecedented number of players not being available for selection. The injury list includes; Chris Pilgrim, Scott Southwell, Ben O'Connor and Ben Sadler. And, there are availability issues with; Jack Richards, Mario Quitadamo, Niall Cavanagh, Ewan Nolan, Tom Price and George Manger

But, their absence allows us to see more of experienced senior players stepping up for early-season action.

New recruit, Gavin Hughes, would have been a starter today anyway. His immense strength in the front row alongside one of the best players to have worn a Saints'shirt, Scott Tunna, at Hooker, and Steve Brooks remaining at prop, should give us a solid platform upfront.

Matty Dowler moves up into the row with the fittest man in the club, Ant Evans, joining him. And, with a back row of Tulima Nonu, Will Grabe and "Captain Fantastic", Nick Hearn, we have a very strong group in the forwards which the missing players will have to fight hard to dislodge!

Behind, Liam Sadler moves in from centre to his best position at No. 9. "The Guv" remains at 10 with James Otutaha outside him at inside centre. Andy Cummings moves up to 13 with Mark Petterson moving back to Full Back. And, on the wings, Adam Bramhall and promoted Matt Brookes give us a potent strike force.

Promising youngsters, Tyler Brookes and Will Sass, join the effervescent impact-man, Dave Edge among today's game changers.

So, all-in-all, it is great testimony to the strength of the senior squad that we can field such a strong side against Aspull, this afternoon.

There will some tough selection decisions for the coaches, next week!

For team details and match preview - click here - to go to the "Match Centre."

The Team

Steve Brooks
Scott Tunnah
Gavin Highes
Matty Dowler
Ant Evans
Lima Nonu
Will Grabe
Nick Hearn
Liam Sadler
Liam McGovern
Adam Bramhall
James Otutaha
Andy Cummings
Matt Brookes
Mark Petterson
Tyler Brookes
Will Sass
Dave Edge