LAST weekend’s match against Hull KR was as bipolar as games come. It was an erratic mish-mash of exciting play bound together by tension and desperation.

After the game I believe our groundsman disposed of over one tonne of finger nails, bitten off by 11,000 Saints fans during that spell when it looked like Rovers had completed a miraculous comeback.

We started so well and knowing that Hull KR have had such a history of coming back into games that seem lost it was disappointing to watch that happen to us.

I can honestly say that had we not been in such good form, we would have suffered what would have been a crushing defeat.

But we found a way to win - and that is a valuable asset for any team to possess.

Winning games when playing poorly has long been heralded as a sign of quality. It is probably a reflection of how far we have come that we are slightly disappointed with the game at the weekend.

I have been very fortunate to play in some great teams and fulfil many of the dreams that I concocted as a lonely child.

One thing that I dare not even dream has this week become a reality for me when I captain my country against the Exiles for the first time. I feel truly humble to have been given such an amazing opportunity as leading a group of players into an international game and I know how privileged I am to be given such an honour.

I am, although, under no illusions that the appointment is a short term one but it doesn't change the sense of achievement I have got from it.

I have consciously tried to become a leader in many parts of my life so although the call was a surprise in some respects, it is essentially what I have been preparing myself mentally to be and my role will not change.

One asset I have always had is my ability to communicate both on and off the field and I hope to bring that, and my form for Saints, to the role.

The game will have been played by the time you read this, but the week in camp has been great so far and due to the influx of players keen to make a mark on this game. There has been an energy and a buzz at training.

I know, having spoken to Daniel Anderson that he does not want to leave these shores having coached a side that gets beat 2-0, so I expected an Exiles team doing everything they can to win the game.

The first game was clumsy at times from both teams, the weather obviously didn't help and both teams suffered with the soap like ball but I know a more pleasing game on the eye wouldn't go a miss for the ever willing rugby league supporters.

And finally….could I just say a massive thank you to everyone who attended my Legends of League night last Wednesday.

It was a huge success, and a massive thank you goes to Chris Joynt, Jamie Peacock, Barry and Terry (who were hilarious) and Paul Wellens. Also thanks to Dominos Pizza and Sarah Wright for providing Pizza for all the guests and the room was full in more than one sense.

Also a big thank you to Dave Howarth, Mark Daverin and the committee, who made sure the night was a success. Next Monday we have a Golf Day at Mere and there are a few team places still available.

On August 20 we have a night to celebrate winners of the Challenge Cup including Robbie Hunter Paul, Shaun McRae and Lee Briers. In September there is a "Night with Johnny Vegas and friends" at the Theatre Royal, sponsored by IRN BRU and also A Question of Sport Dinner hosted by Clare Balding, formal interactive quiz night. visit: www.jonwilkin.co.uk for more info or email info@jonwilkin.co.uk to book places.

See you at Widnes,COYS!