Lee Radford pays big compliment to St Helens ahead of Castleford clash

Castleford boss Lee Radford had his St Helens shirt on last week as they were crowned world champions, but he’s now aiming to take down the Saints.

Last Saturday, St Helens were crowned the best team in the world after beating Penrith Panthers in their own back yard.

Radford was full of admiration for Saints last weekend. But he is now preparing his Castleford side to take on the Saints on Sunday.

“I had my St Helens shirt on for the Saturday morning,” Radford said. “I thought the intensity in which they played with over the last fortnight against St George and then Penrith is obviously admirable.”

Asked what stands St Helens apart from the rest of Super League, Radford replied: “Their level of intensity for a period of time in which they do it.

“They are prepared to get in an arm wrestle more than most sides; and for that reason they’ve won four Grand Finals and now a World Club Championship. It’s been an incredible run and a well deserved run I think.

“I think every team in the competition this year appreciates there is a fair bit of catching up to do to get to them. I think thats an intriguing challenge for most clubs in the competition as well.”

SAINTS: We’re doing something right: NRL interest in St Helens stars only a positive says Wellens

Lee Radford wants to right some wrongs

The Tigers fell short to a 32-30 defeat at Radford’s former club Hull in the opening round. He wants his players to show a positive response in front of their home fans this week.

“I want to right some wrongs from last week and I know a lot of the players do as well. I think its really important for us to show a response at home.”

Castleford face St Helens at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle on Sunday afternoon, live on Channel 4 (1pm).

READ NEXT: Jordan Turner opens up on future after retirement question