SUPER League champions Saints launch their defence of the title with a daunting trip to London Broncos on Sunday, kick-off 6.35pm.

The intriguing clash will be played on the Harlequins ground at The Stoop, where Saints made their only appearance in 1995, when they won 50-34.

However last season's meetings with Bronco's proved to be nail-biters, with Saints winning 24-22 at Knowsley Road, 32-28 at The Valley, and 25-14 in a Premiership semi-final at Knowsley Road.

So the stage is set for another eye-ball-to-eye-ball confrontation, but London will be unable to call upon Bedford Rugby Union and ex-Wigan star Martin Offiah as they bid for their first win over Saints.

The complete match will be televised live on Sky, referee is Russell Smith, and the respective Academy teams will meet in a curtain-raiser, kick-off 4.30pm.

Stand tickets price £14 for the semi-final against Salford at Wigan on Saturday, March 22, will be on sale to seat and ground pass holders and lottery agents tomorrow, Friday, from 9am-to 7pm. General sale is on Saturday 10-12 noon and Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm. Ground admission is £9 and £5. Season passes are now on sale.

Details for home games in the World Club Challenge are: Friday, June 6, Auckland, 7.30. Monday, June 16, Cronulla, 7.45. Sunday, June 16, Penrith, 6.35.

Saints' macho stars are to parade before the admiring gaze of female supporters _ but this time on the catwalk when they model designer gear from male fashion houses Blue Note and Od's at Knowsley Road on Wednesday, March 26, from 8pm.

Tickets are £6 including supper and disco, and are available from Saints' restaurant and bars, telephone St. Helens 756119.

The Universities Challenge Cup Final between Leeds and Warrington takes place at Knowsley Road on Wednesday, March 19, kick-off 7pm.

Saints' Alliance team defeated Hull 40-10 at Knowsley Road on Tuesday night.

Saints are giving trials to local half-back Ben Howden, who returned from France this week after playing with Cannes.

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