Clash of the Titans, part II (From Warrington Guardian)

Clash of the Titans, part II

IF Saints are going to make it through to the Millennium Stadium for May's Challenge Cup Final showpiece, they are going to have to do it the tough way.

That was the verdict after the Saints were paired with last season's semi-final conquerors Leeds as a reward for emphatically toppling the holders Bulls last Sunday.

But the tie, which has been allocated the 3pm Saturday Grandstand slot a week on Saturday, is already being greeted with relish by coach Ian Millward - particularly as it is the first time Saints have entertained Super League opponents in the cup since 2001.

Millward said: "It's another exciting draw. We were looking for anybody at home. It's great for the fans, great for the club and it will be a great game."

This is the sixth season in a row that Saints' and Leeds' paths have crossed in the cup.

"They must put one ball in the freezer and another in the heater," Millward joked.

"But it is just the way the cookie crumbles, and if we can beat London on Saturday and Leeds beat Cas, this will be a clash between the only two undefeated sides. So that in itself shows how big the game is.

"We are playing really well at the moment and we can't wait for it. Although the way the draw is going we could end up playing Batley in the final."

The draw gives Saints the opportunity to avenge last season's late semi-final loss to the Loiners at McAlpine Stadium. But revenge is not a word that easily trips off Millward's lips.

"I am not a really big one for revenge - I am more keen on how we go on preparing for the game and what we do in the here and now. Revenge is only a word, but what we need is action. We are doing plenty of that at the moment."

Tickets for the game, which at present is not all ticket, go on sale on Saturday. Stand season ticket holder have until Tuesday March 9 to buy theirs.