SAINTS boss Justin Holbrook was pleased with his side’s overall performance in the 30-4 victory over Salford.

Although not mathematically certain, it would take a freak score for Wigan plus a Hull win as Castleford to deny them now.

Holbrook said: “I am pleased with that.

“It was a tough game wasn’t it?”

“It was spiteful at times and emotional too but it was important we settled down in that second half and finished it off well so I am very pleased.

“I am very proud of the team. When I came in, everyone asked if we could make the eight and then the four. We were in the four and then out of the four and people asked if we could make it again.

“I always had belief and now we are there. I am really proud of them, they have worked hard and we can now look forward to next week’s game.

“We will know by Friday night whether we finish third or fourth. Cas and Leeds play two differing styles but whoever we face we will have to prepare well because they will be hard to beat. But in saying that I am happy we are there and confident in our team.”

It was an eventful day for Alex Walmsley, he scored two tries, was placed on report and then left the field after a knock for a concussion assessment.

Holbrook said: “I thought Alex Walmsley was outstanding. He turned the game with his carries and how well he has been defending well, he’s been fantastic. I thought his impact again proved a huge difference in the game.

“I think he is the best front rower in the comp and don’t see any other player having that same impact. I would be picking him.

“Ben Barba was probably the best player on the field. It was a big decision against Wigan to start him. We could have brought him off the bench against Wigan to play 40… and the next week at 60 and then he would be right to play 80, but we did not have the time.

“I thought he showed tonight that he can play the 80 minutes but we were proved right. We had to tread water a bit those early days but we know he is ready to play 80 minutes in a semi-final now.

“I look forward to see him next week.”

Jonny Lomax missed out with a hamstring injury, but should be fit for the semi.

Holbrook added: “Jonny was 85 per cent tonight and really wanted to play, but it is better off him being right for next week. He will come back in next week.”

He did not wish to comment on the two incidents from the first half – the on-report for Alex Walmsley and the red card for Lanning.

He said: “It is hard to comment I have only seen the replays of the incidents like you have so don’t want to say too much at the present time.”