Anderson happy to clinch top spot

7:07pm Saturday 6th September 2008

St Helens missed the chance to set a club record but coach Daniel Anderson was delighted with his team's 16-16 draw with Wigan which secured top spot in the engage Super League for a fourth successive year.

The Challenge Cup kings battled back from 12-0 down to secure the all-important point that kept them ahead of defending champions Leeds, who must visit Knowsley Road in the qualifying semi-final in a fortnight's time.

Anderson said: "It was a very tough game and I think both clubs will be happy with a real good warm-up game for the play-offs. There were a lot of very good performances and plenty of contributions."

Saints were on course for a 22nd successive win when centre Matt Gidley scored his second try in the 56th minute to put his side in front for the first time in the match.

Wigan winger Pat Richards then levelled the scores with a penalty 10 minutes from the end but declined another long-range attempt before putting a drop-goal attempt wide of the target.

"I was very surprised he didn't go for goal," said Anderson, who revealed he had to lift his players in the dressing room after the match.

"It felt like a loss but I don't think they should be too hard on themselves.

"In the end they've achieved the League leadership and finished top of the comp on their own. We still haven't been beaten in 22 matches and we've a home game against Leeds."

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