1. The win over Catalans was never in doubt, but the entertainment value was poor.

But let’s put it into perspective; it was a win against a traditionally tough opposition who left Langtree Park in 2012, 2013 and 2016 with the spoils.

If Saints had done a few more basic things, held the ball and cut out the penalties, then the match would have been won a lot earlier.

2. Saints wore black because the game was sponsored by away team jersey backers Crabbies, which caused a few frowns and scratched heads.

Of course until 1980 it used to be the tradition for the home team to change to the away strip when the colours clashed.

At the start of the 1979-80 season four of Saints’ five opening games saw them sporting what was then a dull blue top.

3. Catalans games tend to lack atmosphere because there are no away fans and it being a Thursday night made that worse.

The club are between a rock and hard place when they try to promote game like this given people have already paid.

But are there any initiatives that can fill that end on nights like this - particularly given it was a school night?

4. It was good to see Tommy Makinson get a bit more recognition.

He works hard in yardage, comes off his wing well to crash tackle and is a super finisher.

5. This week’s cup tie is massive so maybe there was half an eye on that.

Saints have gone out early the past two years and have not been to Wembley since 2008 - that is a long time by Saints’ standards.

6. What a difference a year makes. This time 12 months ago Justin Holbrook was packing his bags to head here after being appointed coach.

Saints record then was five wins from 13.

Currently it is 12 from14. So one scratchy win is ok in that context.