A TITANIC struggle is in prospect when Super League leaders Saints clash with second-placed Wigan at Central Park tomorrow night (Friday) kick-off 7.30pm.

As ever pride will be at stake in a mouthwatering showdown, and with Saints currently three points ahead of Wigan in the table victory would make them strong favourites to lift the title. Such an outcome would give Saints their first win at Wigan since 1989 (from which Alan Hunte is the only survivor) and also allow them to complete a league double over the Riversiders for the first time since 1979/80, with the scores being 20-17 at Central Park and 16-10 in the return fixture.

Saints coach Shaun McRae is expected to name his side today, while the report from Wigan is that Kris Radlinski, Henry Paul and Martin Offiah are ready to resume after injury but Andy Farrell awaits a late check on a thigh injury.

Referee is David Campbell, the complete match will be screened on the Sky Channel from 7pm, while a curtain-raiser between the Academy squads of both clubs will kick-off at 5pm.

Saints' Alliance team play Wigan at Knowsley Road tonight, Thursday, kick-off 7.30pm. Forward Andy Leathem is expected to make his comeback after a viral illness

Coach Nick Halifahi's Academy team defeated Leigh 48-16 at Knowsley Road on Sunday. No decision has yet been made as to whether Saints will play Oldham at Gateshead on Friday, July 19.

Saints' full-back Steve Prescott will show off the Challenge Cup at Crosspit Lane junior school, Rainford, on Saturday between 3-4pm. Visitors can be photographed with the trophy at a charge of £4, including a donation to school funds.

A Sporstman's Dinner in aid of the Gus O'Donnell kidney machine fund will be held at Saints on Friday, July 12, with the speakers being Andy Gregory and Paul Forber. Tickets price £18 may be obtained from George Connolly on 0151-426-0030, or any committee member.

A meeting for all supporters going to Paris for the game on August 10 will be held at Knowsley Road on Tuesday, July 16, at 7.30pm.

Forthcoming events in the Phil Veivers testimonial include: Race nights tonight, Thursday, at the Butchers Arms, Penketh, and at the Alexandra Hotel, Crossley Road, on Thursday, June 27. Ladies night at Saints, Friday, June 28, with comedienne Kelly Fox and vocalist Danny Roman £6. Casino night at Saints, Wednesday, July 10. Further details from Bernard Sweeney 892919.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.