SAINTS will be hoping to extend a Silk Cut Challenge Cup undefeated run against Widnes which stretches back to 1930 when they face the Chemics in their semi-final clash at Wigan on Saturday, kick-off 2.15pm.

For after that shock 10-3 reverse 66 years years ago Saints prevailed in the first round after a replay in 1961; in the Wembley final of 1976 (the last time they won the trophy); at the penultimate stage in 1989 and 1991, and in a first round tie at Naughton Park in 1992.

However all that is now history and Saints can expect an almighty challenge as Widnes seek to end that dismal run, while the Knowsley Road squad are mindful of the old adage that no one remembers beaten semi-finalists as they continue their bid to bring the Cup back to town for the first time in 20 years.

There is an undeniable 'buzz' both at Knowsley Road and among their faithful fans that this is Saints' year, and the hope must be that the belief is still in place at 4pm on Saturday for the sake of everyone concerned, not least the club itself, for the financial boost of even just a Wembley visit would be most welcome.

Stand tickets price £12 will remain on sale at Knowsley Road until Friday. The whole match will be televised on BBC Grandstand, and Russell Smith will referee a clash in which Saints will play in their blue-and-white Centenary strip.

Saints' executives Andy Foreman and Mike Callaghan a looking for 10 fans to distribute a promotional leaflet after the game at Central Park on Saturday. Anyone interested should telephone St. Helens 758269.

Sales of Super League season tickets have already exceeded £50,000 at Knowsley Road, and they may still be obtained at the Secretary's office during normal business hours.

All tickets have been sold for the Saints/McEwan's Lager Super League dinner to be held at the Thistle Hotel, Haydock, on Thursday, March 14.

Forthcoming events in the Phil Veivers' testimonial include: Race nights at Princess Royal (March 8), Parr Oddfellows (March 15), Cricketers Arms (March 26). Sportsman's Dinner at Birchley St. Mary's (March 13) £15. Hypnotic Evening at Saints (March 22) £4. Further information from St. Helens 737917 or 892919.

Locally-based business executive John Walker is a partner in the Fox Sports Group who, along with the Sports and Media organisation, have reached an exclusive three-year agreement with the Rugby League to sell perimeter advertising.

Said Mr. Walker, of Heyes Avenue, Rainford: "It is marvellous news and indicates the confidence that the game's governing body have in us."

John Walker can be contacted on 01744-885981.

Answer to correspondent Arthur Murray, of Parr Stocks Road: Saints' team which lost 19-18 to Halifax at Wembley in 1987 was: Veivers; Ledger, Loughlin, Elia, McCormack; Clarke, Holding; Burke, Liptrot, Fieldhouse, Platt, Haggerty, Arkwright (captain). Substitutes Round, Forber.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.