Among a backline ravaged by injuries, one man has been a constant at St Helens.
Matty Dawson has been a reliable source for Keiron Cunningham this year, becoming a mainstay in the side since making his first appearances of the season in their victory over Hull KR.
In seven appearances, Dawson has seen the team’s backline change constantly, with injuries to the likes of Mark Percival, Adam Swift and Tommy Makinson forcing Cunningham to constantly reshuffle his side.
Dawson has been affected by the many changes, playing at both wing and centre while also playing in several different combinations.
It hasn’t, however, hampered his form, with the 25-year-old scoring five tries in seven games so far this season, and Dawson admits he is enjoying his prolonged run in the side.
“I’m just enjoying playing in the team and making the most of that.
“I can play centre and wing, so with the injuries we have it’s helpful that I can move around, and I’m happy to go where I’m needed.
“There’s been a few combinations and I’ve enjoyed playing with them all. People coming in have to do a job, and they have done really.”
The opportunity to play at centre has been particularly enjoyable for Dawson because it has given him the opportunity to broaden his talents, having spent most of his career utilised on the wing.
“A few times I’ve been stuck out on the wing, so it’s nice to play centre and prove I can play there so I don’t just get that wing tag.
“People have seen me play on the wing that many times that they’ve labelled me as a winger, so it’s nice to show I can play centre and try to do a job for the team.”
Saints will take on a Warrington side without influential halfback Chris Sandow tonight, however Dawson believes Australian Kurt Gidley will help fill that void.
“They’re a class team and they’ve made some good signings. They have quality all over so we’ll have to be on our toes and keep an eye on all of them.
“Sandow has got the plaudits so far, but whenever I’ve watched Warrington, Gidley has been good with his game management. I think he will step up even more now.”
