SECOND-PLACED Saints are facing a back division injury crisis as they prepare for Sunday's trip to Salford City Reds, kick-off 3pm.

For centres Paul Newlove (thumb) and Kevin Iro (dead leg) are rated extremely doubtful, while half-backs Tommy Martyn (finger) and Sean Long (knee) await late fitness checks.

Saints' selection problems were compounded by the three-match suspension of Vila Matautia on Tuesday, and it is likely that teenage forwards Tim Jonkers and Mark Edmondson will come into the reckoning at the Willows.

With Saints determined to overhaul leaders Bradford and Salford in the relegation zone the stage is set for a battle royal, particularly with the Reds hell-bent on avenging a 30-12 home reverse in March and a 48-0 thrashing away defeat in June. Salford were delaying selection in view of last night's game at Leeds but - if he avoids injury - are expected to include former Saints winger Joey Hayes in their line-up.

Referee is Karle Kirkpatrick.

Radio Merseyside coverage begins at 2.30pm on 14.85 medium wave, with the exclusively Rugby League programme continuing until 5.30pm. Supporters Club coaches leave Knowsley Road at 1.15pm, prices £5 and £5.50.

Tickets for the final game at Central Park on Sunday, September 5, are on sale at Saints price £12, £9 and £5.

Saints hold the current longest winning run in Super League with six successive victories. Their last defeat came at the hands of London Broncos by 24-22 at Knowsley Road on July 4.

Saints' all-time 'great' Alex Murphy, OBE, has accepted the presidency of Warrington Past Players Association. Alex is also a member of the PPA at Knowsley Road.

The Independent Saints' Supporters Association will meet at the town hall on Thursday, September 1, at 7.30pm. Further details from Russ Fairclough on 88-3090

Commercial executive Andy Foreman reports that orders are flooding in for Saints' Millenium book. A limited edition bearing the subscriber's name and autographed by the first team, it is proced at £25. Order forms are available at the Superstore. Reservations are also being accepted for the Millennium calender price £5.99.

Answer to correspondent Jack Arnold, of Prescot: South African winger Len Killeen played for Saints from 1962-67. He made 187 appearances and scored 115 tries and 408 goals for a total of 1,161 points. He won the Lance Todd Trophy against Wigan in 1966, when he was credited with the longest goal at Wembley - a 65-yard penalty in Saints 21-2 win.

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