SAINTS' unbeaten home record faces a stern test (tonight) when on-song Hull visit Knowsley Road for a rare Thursday night game.

The Black and Whites, transformed since new coach Peter Sharp took over, have won their last seven games on the trot and have climbed to third spot.

But Saints, who booked their Challenge Cup semi-final spot last weekend, are playing confidently at the moment.

They welcome back James Roby, who has recovered earlier than anticipated from his knee ligament injury.

Daniel Anderson also takes the opportunity to rotate his front rowers with Nick Fozzard returning in place of Paul Anderson.

Jason Hooper, whose wife is due to have their third child, is also sitting out the game.

Anderson said: "Hull started the year where they left off, then had a dip, but now they are back up there. They have got a big pack of forwards.

"They are starting to build in confidence, momentum and self-image and they can mix it with the big boys. There is a growing belief within their camp."

Saints beat Hull 46-0 earlier this season, which probably sealed the fate of their former coach John Kear. Hull have not won at Knowsley Road since October 1988 when Alex Murphy's side lost 20-9.

Saints have been paired with giant killers Hull KR in the Powergen Challenge Cup semi-final which will be a family affair for the two coaches. Daniel Anderson's brother Hunter is married to Justin Morgan's sister Nicole. Anderson also coached Morgan at Parramatta and New Zealand Warriors.

Anderson said: "I have known Morgs for a long time and watched his progression and he is a very intelligent rugby league player and was always destined to be a coach.

"He is a pro and always presented himself well, communicated well and showed his rugby league nous."

Saints' front rower Jason Cayless has enjoyed his first Challenge Cup campaign, but is not taking a final place for granted despite being paired with non-Super League opposition.

"The semi-final will be a tough game because Hull KR are full time and going well. Semi finals are always tough - and it is one step away from Twickenham.

"It is really exciting - because Super League is a lot of games before a final.

"Challenge Cup is four games and then you are into the big final in London.

"The knockout nature makes it really exciting and I have enjoyed it," he said.

Prop Nick Fozzard has penned a new two year deal to stay at Knowsley Road.

Fozzard is in his third season at Saints since signing from Warrington, and has been rewarded for some improved form of late.