Moses Mbye knew St Helens were winners when he arrived – his bed was made
MOSES Mbye admits he knew the moment he arrived that St Helens were not lying about being hungry for success – his kitchen cupboard and bed told him that.
And he believes the little off-field touches are contributing to them becoming great on the pitch.
The Australian hooker was on the other side of the world from his family after walking into the four-times defending Super League champions and current World Club kings in July.
But any hesitation, nerves or homesickness was eradicated as soon as he stepped through the door.
Mbye said: “They left no stone unturned. As soon as I arrived here, they had food in my cupboard and a bed made for me.
“You could just tell why this club is successful. There are guys here – like coach Paul Wellens, chief executive Mike Rush and owner Eamonn McManus – who know what winning looks like.
“It’s the off-field stuff as much as anything. Rugby’s only a part of it. You’re only at the club for four or five hours a day, you go home for the other 18-20.
“I came here by myself , on the other side of the world with no family, but I instantly felt like I had family here.”
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After weeks apart, Mbye’s family is now in the UK – now they are getting the guided tour, not just of the pubs – although he has found a couple of good ones.
He added: “I spent a few days down in London with them, which was pretty cool, and I’m trying to get around as much as I can.
“I’d found a couple of decent places on my own, the locals – they’re my hidden gems!
“Most Aussies are the same, we don’t mind a pint and I think there are two pubs on every corner, especially in St Helens.”
Beds, cupboards and pubs aside, 30-year-old Mbye has the job of helping Saints to a fifth straight title and sending retiring James Roby and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook out in style.
Tonight sees Wellens’ side, who finished third in the regular season, head to the south of France to face Catalans but the ‘new boy’ believes the second-placed Dragons can fall to a GOAT.
He told SunSport: “Everyone knows what a GOAT James is, You don’t get through almost 600 games without being one of the greatest to play our game.
“It’s just a privilege to be able to suit up beside him.
“I’ve learned plenty from him. The knowledge guys like him have is priceless and he’s always willing to help and teach you, as well as pass on that knowledge.
“And Louie brings a lot of energy to the group, what he brings is infectious.
“Tonight is a big task. Catalans finished in the top two but if you want to win the competition, you’ve got to beat the best teams – why not start now?”