THERE'S no magic formula! That was the reaction of Saints' boss as his side prepare for the last hurdle before Wembley against Widnes on Saturday.

WHITTLE: All the signs are that this game is going to be a real 'tough 'un,' would you not agree?

McRAE: With such a mouthwatering prize at stake it just has to be, because the intensity and pressure on the players and as far as I am concerned the preparation has been the same as it was for the previous rounds ie speed and skill training, and greater emphasis on defence.

This despite the belief of some people that - given the 10-metre rule, speeding up of the play-the-ball and holding-down laws - that is virtually impossible for a coach to improve his side's defence let alone make it watertight.

My answer to that is 'ask Graham West!' because Wigan conceded 100 points fewer that anyone else in the Centenary League, and while I am the first to recognise a brilliant opposition try it is the concession of 'soft' ones which make my hackles rise.

As for Widnes, my players know what to expect because the Chemics are a big, physical team who are also well blessed with experience when one remembers the likes of John Devereux, Darren Wright, Shane Cooper, Stuart Spruce and the Hulme brothers.

But I also believe that Saints have the edge in pace and youth and, hopefully having taking certain lessons on board, will be totally committed to not missing the boat for the 'big one.'

WHITTLE: Major topic in town is who fills the number two jersey. Can you enlighten the fans?

McRAE: The line-up will be announced on Thursday but what I can tell you is that Joey Hayes is back in the frame after his hamstring problem. The same can be said of Andy Leathem (cartilage) and Ian Pickavance (groin).

WHITTLE: Were you happy with Alan Hunte's come-back game at Warrington on Friday?

McRAE: Yes, even though our Alliance team lost 38-18! On a happier note Alan emerged unscathed and further examination has confirmed that the troublesome knee stood up to the test well and Hunte is also back in contention for Saturday.

WHITTLE: What is the up-to-date report on Saints' other walking wounded?

McRAE: Frankly it is looking doubtful if Dean Busby's medial ligament problem will have healed in time for the opening games in the Super League, while Andy Haigh is the latest casualty with an achilles injury. But the bulletin is more optimistic on Tommy Martyn who, like Hunte, has had a hard battle after knee surgery, while television star Adam Fogarty is back in full training following a cartilage operation.

WHITTLE: When will you link up with incoming assistant first-team coach Mike Gregory and his Academy counterpart Nick Halifahi?

McRAE: I was obviously involved in the appointment of both Mike and Nick who both did very well at the interview stage and I am eagerly looking forward to working with them. Gregory still has contractual obligations with Salford which David Howes is attempting to resolve, while Halifahi will not be available for two months due to PE teaching commitments in Hull. Mike is expected the plug the Academy gap during the interim period. WHITTLE: Rumour has it that Saints' senior squad are to attend coaching courses. Can you elaborate on this?

McRAE: The Level II course will take place here at Knowsley Road in the near future with the thinking behind it being that, as well as helping the players understand the game better, it will prepare them for coaching work in the schools as

part of our commitment to the community.

What has to be remembered about full-time professional Rugby league is that it is not a 9-5 job, the morning session is usually devoted to training and, within reason, the players must be prepared to commit themselves to vital public relations work later in the day.

But they are called upon for Rugby League duty during Saturday training stints and also on Sunday for fixtures, so like everyone else, they are entitled to some time off.

WHITTLE: Are you now settled in after two months at Knowsley Road?

McRAE: Not quite, although I have been well looked after in the two hotels I have stayed in up to now. However I have obtained suitable accommodation in St. Helens in readiness for the arrival of my wife and family on Monday, March 18, so things are moving on apace.

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