I cannot believe the stadium name has not leaked out yet? They are either doing superbly well at keeping it a secret or there isn't a deal yet with anyone.

Apparently the deal is done and the name will comprise two words. Apparently. I can't imagine it not being done at this late stage. Saints are wise to keep everything under wraps until the internationals are over I reckon and then make a big splash.

Where did you get the two words scoop?

A-ha, wouldn't you like to know!

Up to a week ago the stadium naming rights were still up for grabs. I have no idea whether they have been bought since then. We pulled out.

Who is we?

Shame that, the Donkey O'Tay Stadium has a nice ring to it.

Will be announced in about 4 weeks. The will be few announcements over the next month about stadium, kit and the new saints shop at the stadium which will be open soon.

Mate of mine has got a stewarding job at the new stadium and he's told me that there will be a friendly with Widnes on boxing day announced soon.

Not what i was told. I think that was the original plan but at the moment I dont think that will happen.

Saints needs the safety certificate and from what I'm told they want season ticket holders to attend the opening of the stadium.

I also know saints have been in talks with the RFL about the first vane if the season being at home, on sky and against a very big club.

So we are planning to lose our first game in the new ground? Not the best idea IMO.

That was my reaction as well.

Why dont you just say McManus has asked the RFL can you play Wigan for your first game in the new ground next year? If it comes off you'll beat us, just like Catalan was destined too.

Playing Wigan or Wire first up would be silly. It is a waste of an opportunity to make money from an otherwise unnatractive fixture that would draw a big crowd.
Catalan could be a good bet for a decent side first up. A fixture that doesnt normally get fans rushing to the turnstiles, but which would be a match that would appeal to neutrals and SKY as one worthy of kicking off things in the new stadium, due to the quality of the Cats side.

Wonder if Sky will want a grand final rematch between Leeds and Saints?

I also think its best not to get a mega match first up for safety reasons. Stewards and fans would be unfamiliar with the stadium. Hence if anything went wrong it would exacerbate the problem. Best to get familiar with the ground before the big guns come into town.