Puletua played for Samoa in the recent World Cup

Forward Tony Puletua won praise from coach Mick Potter after bagging a debut try for St Helens in Sunday's 26-22 victory over a weakened Wakefield side.

"I thought he mixed up his game well," said Potter. "He took the line on a few times, came up with some good offloads and scored a good try."

A Sam Obst try gave the Wildcats, minus eight regulars, a 6-0 half-time lead.

But Puletua, Chris Dean, Ade Gardner, Tom Armstrong and Matty Ashurst crossed to hand victory to the home side.

Matt Blaymire, Ryan Atkins and Damien Blanch touched down for Wakefield in the second half, with Tony Martin kicking three conversions.

"I wanted to see everybody play and I did so that was good," added Potter, who fielded 10 youngsters alongside 10 members of last October's Grand Final team.

I thought it was a very competitive match and a real good hit-out John Kear

"From the first half to the second half we improved. We were a bit stand-offish in the first half but were more direct in the second and executed our plays better."

Wakefield gave a first appearance to new signing James Stosic in the testimonial match for Paul Wellens.

"I thought it was a very competitive match and a real good hit-out," said Wildcats coach John Kear. "I think both teams can feel pretty happy with what happened.

"What was especially pleasing for me was the performance of the young players. Sean Gleeson looks more mature than ever and the other centre, Aaron Murphy, did an outstanding job."

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