THE Challenge Cup quarter-finals are exciting for everyone and, for me, bring back some great memories.
I played in the final against Saints in 2006 when, unfortunately, we lost at Twickenham.
And I went to Wembley when we were beaten by Warrington but wasn’t in the squad because of injury.
Even so, it was a brilliant experience just being at the new Wembley and with that being the final venue again this season, it would be great to go back there and win it this time.
First of all, we’ve got to do the business against Castleford, who I know from talking to Paul Jackson are really up for the game.
They are a strange side to assess because they started the season superbly well and were top of the table, but have levelled out a good bit since then.
I think they are one of those clubs who have a very good 1-17 and will do well when they can put them out, but they can find it harder when they are forced to bring people in.
They are a dangerous side who can pick up wins against the top clubs, though, and they’ve got Rangi Chase back – and he is definitely the one to look out for in their line-up.
He was originally banned for our game but got a reprieve and he’ll be keen to do well.
It goes without saying, really, that I would be delighted if I got a call-up for the tie. It’s a big game and I would love to be involved, so fingers crossed.
Of the other ties, today’s between Warrington and Wigan could go either way and will be a cracker.
If Warrington start as well as they did against us, then they’ll win.
Saints v Hull KR looks like a Saints win to me and I’m going to go for a Hull FC victory against Leeds.
