NEW signing James Bentley crossed for a hat-trick as Saints defeated Sheffield Eagles 64-6 in their opening pre-season friendly at Ruskin Sports Village.

The second row, signed from Bradford Bulls, crossed once in the first half and twice in the second as Saints enjoyed the fast track of the 4G surface to serve up an entertaining show of open rugby for the spectators.

Coach Justin Holbrook started with Danny Richardson and Theo Fages in the halves and Matty Smith at hooker - and the three playmakers worked effectively to direct an attack that showed plenty of cut and thrust. 

Fages, who started at stand off, was the creator of the opening try, with his short kick touched down by Dominique Peyroux.

Holbrook has talked about an emphasis being placed on improving skill levels and handling during the off season.

And the pace at which the ball zipped across the back line and the way offloads helped change the direction of attack offered promise that there will be an even greater dynamism to an attack that began to blossom during the Australian’s initial months in charge last year.

Their second try, from Regan Grace, was an example of well executed handling which created an overlap for the winger to finish clinically on the left.

And the third, from Jake Spedding, whose quick feet opened a route to the line, came after Kyle Amor’s offload had altered the direction of the attack.

Spedding, who was among the youngsters to catch the eye, turned provider with a smart offload on the inside to put the strong running Bentley in for his first.

The impressive Richardson, meanwhile, demonstrated how his goalkicking adds another string to his bow, with four conversions - including two superbly struck efforts from wide out - contributing to a 24-0 half time score.

Adam Swift extended Saints’ lead after gathering in a kick - and though former Saint Matty Fozzard responded for the Yorkshireman - it continued to be one way traffic.

Richardson, a constant menace as he attacked the line with pace, was the supply line for Bentley’s next two tries through short passes.

The 21-year-old showed terrific strength and balance for the first before he registered a hat-trick on the back of a well angled run.

Holbrook used the second half to blood plenty of youngsters, who were orchestrated by Smith and Fages at different intervals.

Further tries were racked up by John Hutchings, Josh Eaves, Kyle Amor and Chris Follin, with Rob Fairclough landing four conversions.