SAINTS' chances for Sunday's terrace-packer against Leeds Rhinos at Knowsley Road (6.35) could be boosted by the return of Keiron Cunningham.

The Test hooker has been missing since May 7 after damaging an ankle at Castleford. But he reported no reaction after stepping up his training schedules this week.

Western Samoan forward Vila Matautia may also be in the Saints' squad after breaking an arm against Halifax on April, but coach Ian Millward has other selection headaches.

For Paul Newlove was due to face the disciplinary board after being placed on report at Wakefield, while Kevin Iro, Chris Joynt, Tommy Martyn, Scott Barrow and Anthony Sullivan have been under treatment.

The Leeds squad is: Cummins; Sterling, Walker, Senior, Pratt; Harris, Sheridan; Fleary, Jackson, McDermott, Morley, Barnhill, Hay. Substitutes Farrell, Powell, Mathiou, Mackay.

Television coverage starts at 6.30pm, and Haydock Male Voice Choir are included in the entertainment programme.

Apollo Perelini signed for Sale on Friday after almost six years at Saints, in which he has so far made 175 appearances and scored 43 tries. A player who earned tremendous respect both on and off the field, Western Samoan Perelini will stay at Knowsley Road until the end of the season. Said football manager Eric Hughes: "We are sad to lose Apollo because he has been a model professional."

Saints are hopeful that Fereti Tuilagi will remain at Saints, but are not over-optimistic because they cannot compete with the huge contracts offered by several Rugby Union clubs. Tuilagi told me: "I would like to stay at Saints because they are the best club I have played for, but I have spoken with Sale officials Brian Kennedy and Adrian Hadley, along with Leicester and other clubs." Seeking to plug the gaps created by the impending departure of Perelini and Tuilagi, Saints have been linked with Australian Dave Furner and Francis Stephenson of Wakefield. Said Mr. Hughes: "I cannot comment on those rumours, but we have a number of possible signings in mind, both here and abroad. But of course financial constraints, and with it the salary cap, are the bottom line."

Former Saints' centre Scott Gibbs is set to make a nostalgic return to Knowsley Road on Sunday. He will be accompanied by a party of Welsh rugby enthusiasts.

Four tries by up-and-coming Steve Hall was the feature of the Alliance team's 40-10 home win over Wakefield. Other touchdowns came from Mark McCully, Mark Bennett and John Braddish, who also kicked six goals. Vila Matautia made a successful return after breaking an arm. Team: McCully; Kirkpatrick, Hill, Hall, Birkett; Braddish, Peet; Loughlin, Hamilton, Matautia, Jonkers, Bennett, Johnson. Substitutes Cunliffe, Holdstock, Edmondson, McConnell. Saints travel to Leeds tonight, Thursday, kick-off 7.30pm. Halifax visit Knowsley Road next Wednesday, kick-off 7.30pm.

The Academy side lost 28-14 at Wakefield. Their points came from tries by Proudfoot, Johnson and Hill while Dootson kicked a goal. Saints entertain Leeds on Sunday, kick-off 4.10pm The kick-off time for Saints' match at Halifax on Friday, June 25, has been brought forward to 7.30pm.

Saints have teamed up with J. Montagu Financial Management to provide free services and advice to players, staff and season ticket holders. Details from marketing director Alan Rowley on 23697.

A mixed dinner and evening of comedy in aid of Willowbrook Hospice will be held at Saints on Friday, June 30, from 7.30pm. Ray French is compere and comedians are Jerry Alden and Dudley Dolittle. Tickets price £17.50 are available from ex-winger Les Jones on 818109 or Jimmy O'Sullivan 28148. Donations and raffle prizes gratefully accepted.

The Independent Supporter's Association will meet at the Unison club, Bishop Road, on Thursday, June 22, from 7.30pm.

Ex-Saints' full-back Clive Griffiths has been appointed to the coaching staff of Swansea Rugby Union club.

England World Cup hero of 1966 Nobby Stiles will be guest speaker when Saints hold their next First Friday Club dinner at the St. Helens Hilton on July 7. Details from Helen Lawrenson on 23697.

Saints' open day will be held on Sunday, June 25, from 11.30am to 6pm. Free admission. Attractions will include a pig roast, fire engine display, face painting, tour of stadium, player's drill, bouncy castle, Wish FM roadshow, team photographs.

Answer to correspondent Jim Morris of Gillars Green: Duggie Greenall captained Saints at Wembley in 1953, when Huddersfield won 15-10. Team: Moses; Llewellyn (t), Greenall, Gullick, McCormick; Honey, Langfield (t 2g); Prescott, Blakemore, Parr, Parsons, Bretherton, Cale.