SAINTS' shattering defeat at Hull means the champions now have an even bigger mountain to climb if they are to retain their Super League trophy.

But there is no white flag flying at Knowsley Road just yet as they prepare to lock horns with a Widnes side that have blown hot and cold all season.

Sunday's loss, combined with Wigan's win against Bradford on Monday, means that Saints are going to have to do it the hard way as fourth place seems their likely finishing position.

There is only four programmed Super League fixtures left to play but the bonus for Saints comes in the fact that they still have troops waiting in the wings - although some are getting frustrated with life on the sidelines.

Saints skipper Chris Joynt, who is still recovering from clean up surgery on his knee, said: "Not being out there is getting really frustrating now.

"Although there is a temptation to go out and play, it could set me back another two to three weeks and then put me out of the play-offs.

"I will run on it this week and if it goes well then I will be in the reckoning for Sunday. If it flares up again I will have to wait.

"I know Paul Sculthorpe is feeling the same way. He is training and running well and then he will go down to pick up a ball and there will be another little niggle."

The skipper said the side were disappointed with Sunday's display, particularly as it cost them their super defensive record.

Joynt said: "I thought they blew us away early on. I think it is noticeable that we have started our last three games slowly and this time we paid for it.

"Our defence, which has been our strong point all season, was very patchy.

"We did not go up in a line. Some players were going up, others were hanging back.

"And when you are up against players like Jason Smith, who can cut out eight defenders with a pass, then you are going to pay for it.

"We had the best defence in the league and are gutted we have lost that now through one game.

"But we are going to stick at it. We are still vying for third spot although the pie men winning on Monday has made it tough for us."

Meanwhile, Joynt has poured cold water over speculation linking him to a move to Leigh.

"I am not going to Leigh. I am contracted to Saints until the end of next season and this is definitely where I want to be," he said.

Saints' game at near neighbours Widnes on Sunday will kick-off at 3pm.

There will be a corporate golf day at Formby Hall on Monday in aid of Joynt's testimonial fund. Tickets cost £500 for a team of four. There will be a mixed event that night with tickets costing £25. Contact Barry Hyland for tickets on 01744 454441.