St Helens have maintained their winning start to the Super League season by producing an impressive second-half display to overcome Widnes Vikings 30-20 at the Select Security Stadium.
Eamon O'Carroll barged over from close range to open the scoring for the hosts, with Danny Tickle successfully converting to bring up 100 goal kicks in Vikings colours.
The game was soon level, though, as Lance Hohaia squeezed his way over having spotted a gap to break into, while Travis Burns also made no mistake from the follow-up attempt.
Having stood up well to the pressure being put on them by the visitors, the Chemics edged back ahead prior to the interval when Patrick Ah Van used his full frame to cross over. Stefan Marsh then added to the scoring with two successful goals in the closing stages of the first half to put Widnes on their way.
It was to be St Helens who ran away with things in the second half, however, racking up four tries within 21 minutes of the restart through Atelea Vea, Luke Thompson, Jordan Turner and Hohaia to turn the contest on its head.
Burns was on target with each of the conversions to ensure that his side held control of the game heading into the closing stages.
An injury-hit Widnes showed some character as they battled away, and they were rewarded thanks to Aaron Heremaia's score late on which made the scoreline just that little bit more respectable.
Defeat for Leeds Rhinos against Warrington Wolves elsewhere this evening ensures that the Saints take top spot in the Super League table.
Daniel Lewis
