Hook, once again struggling with the boot, should have slotted over a three-point attempt early in the second half but it was quickly forgotten as veteran wing Shane Williams, playing in the final World Cup match of his career, produced a moment of magic in the 49th minute.

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Arsenal midfielder Rosicky squandered the first clear-cut chance when he did superbly to break clear behind the Scots defence, but his attempt to curl the ball home with the outside of his boot flew wide from 12 yards.

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Paterson maintained his 100 per cent record with the boot with a 58th minute penalty but O'Gara missed with his third attempt five minutes later.

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However, then came Forde's sending off with the ball appearing to ricochet off his own boot to hit his hand as he charged out of his own area in an attempt to avert the danger.

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As Wigan had done earlier, Saints' response to conceding was immediate and if possible Meli's attempt to touch down in the corner was even closer than Richards', but video replays showed his boot just grazed the whitewash.

BBC: St Helens 14-10 Wigan