ST HELENS Rugby League Club chairman Eamonn McManus is expecting 'solid' financial results this year despite the team's inconsistent form earlier in the season.

McManus makes his prediction on the back the club's finances continuing to strengthen in the year ended October 31, 2015.

Revenues increased by approximately 10 per cent from £7,124,794 in 2014 to £7,771,921 in 2015.

Earnings before interest, tax and depreciation also improved from a loss of £371,211 in 2014 to a profit of £30,715 in 2015.

McManus said: “The results reflect the healthy state of the club's financial position and commercial performance.

"This arises from our strong balance sheet position and the improved income generating opportunities emanating from our new stadium."

McManus is quick to praise the efforts of all involved in the business.

"I'd like to put on record my appreciation of all the hard-working and professional staff at the club," he said.

“The financial position is undoubtedly more challenging in the 2016 season, deriving largely from a number of months when the rugby results were not as we would hope for and expect.

"This inevitably had a detrimental effect on crowd numbers and their related revenue streams.

“That said, the robust and diversified business model of the club, and our ability to generate material non-rugby related income through the magnificent conferencing and hospitality opportunities which our new stadium offers, means that we can still expect a solid set of financial results in 2016.

“Most importantly, the balance sheet and brand of the club each remain very strong and provide the platform for continued financial improvement in the medium and long terms."