Rea hits out at Saints' imports jibe

The London Broncos coach, Tony Rea, has hit back at Saints' suggestion, on the eve of their play-off showdown with St Helens, that their import quota gives them an unfair advantage.

The St Helens coach, Ian Millward, complained this week that the Broncos will still be allowed 10 overseas players next year, compared with the four at other clubs. Millward asked whether it was time to reconsider that dispensation now that London are a top-six side.

"We're very happy with the progress that we're making in bringing through British players," Rea said. "The people who know something about it recognise that we are doing a good job in getting the balance right."

One of the Broncos' young British players, Joe Mbu, is the one change in their side, coming in for the Australian Bill Peden, who is out with a knee injury. "It's a blow because Bill has been good for us, but it gives Joe a good chance to show what he can do," Rea said.

Keith Mason and Tim Jonkers, who both suffered injuries against Bradford last week, are definitely out.