ST HELENS have been labelled the Real Madrid of rugby league by Salford boss Steve Simms.

He says comparisons with the Spanish giants can be made because the Challenge Cup semi-finalists also have a galaxy of global world-class stars.

And he even claims that the Super League leaders boast the finest array of talent in world rugby.

Simms predicts a comfortable win for Daniel Anderson's side in tomorrow's semi with Hull KR, the ambitious National League club who captured Warrington Wolves' prized scalp in the last round.

He said: "Saints must have more internationals on their books than any other club in the world. It's quite staggering and they could easily compete in the Australian NRL."

Saints legend Alex Murphy echoes Simms's sentiments and fondly remembers a third round Cup clash against Hull KR in 1966.

Many fans were heading for home thinking Saints had crashed out but one last throw of the dice from maestro Murphy saved his side's bacon and they went on to win the trophy.

"I also think Saints are on for a League and Cup double this time. You have to admire the progress Hull KR have made and you never know what one man is capable of doing in 80 minutes.

"He may never play like that again and Rovers will give it their all but I expect Saints to treat them with respect and I'm sure fitness levels will tell.

Charging

"Rovers have some good players. Michael Smith is a big lad who was briefly on the books at Saints and has been charging through defences in the National League. He can't expect to do the same against Saints but I'm sure he will be up for it. Justin Morgan, the Hull KR coach, is doing a great job but Saints have so many match-winners.

"They possibly aren't as free-flowing as they were under Daniel Anderson but he knows better than anyone just how much quality he has at his disposal.

"When a player is told to carry out a specific duty they know exactly what is asked of them."

Aussie superstar centre Jamie Lyon has been cleared by the disciplinary committee to face Rovers.

Murphy added: "Lyon will want to finish on a high but it will be a big blow when he returns to Australia. I just wonder why we can't keep hold of overseas players but I can understand him wanting to go back."

Rovers will find it's a big difference playing against a team with Saints' strength."

Murphy's former team-mate Tony Barrow, a Cup winner, goes for a convincing Saints' victory.

He said: "Kieron Cunningham is having a great season, Paul Wellens has been out of this world but it's James Graham, the young forward, who's impressed me. This lad is going places.

"Ade Gardner, the young winger has come on a ton and John Wilkin, is an excellent prospect."

What is your prediction for the game? Have your say.

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