Millward and Raper linked with Melbourne coach post

The two most successful Australian coaches in Britain are being linked with the vacant job at the Melbourne Storm – although an appointment closer to home looks more likely.

Melbourne pushed out Mark Murray this week after just one full season in charge and the names of St Helens' Ian Millward and Wigan's Stuart Raper have immediately appeared on the list of likely candidates.

Raper missed out on the job at his old club, Cronulla, a year ago and Millward was courted by Wests Tigers earlier this season before agreeing to sign a extended contract at Saints. As the Storm's players expressed astonishment at Murray being forced out so quickly, his assistant, Glen Lazarus, was being touted as a potential successor. But Melbourne's executive director, John Ribot, hinted that the club are likely to look for someone with a track record. "I tend to go a little bit more towards experience," he said. "We can't afford to take a chance."

Both Millward and Raper would fill the bill as coaches who have proved their ability, but the Storm could turn instead to Brisbane's highly rated No 2, Craig Bellamy.

For the match against Hull tonight that could put them back on top of Super League, Saints have Tim Jonkers and Paul Wellens back.

Leeds, still not certain of a place in the play-offs, have doubts over the fitness of Karl Pratt for the visit of London. Richard Mathers stands by, while the Broncos, who need to win to maintain their hopes of a top-six finish, are boosted by Nigel Roy agreeing a new, two-year contract.

Salford could sneak out of the relegation place – at least until Wakefield go to Halifax on Sunday – if they win at Warrington, whose victory over Castleford last weekend has steered them to safety. "Warrington are safe and they may not be as hungry," said the Salford coach, Karl Harrison. "We're desperate to get the points."

Castleford have secured Darren Rogers on an extended contract until the end of the 2004 season.

The re-formed club in York, which has been admitted to the Rugby League for next year, is to be known as the York City Knights. Its predecessor, York Wasps, folded in mid-season.

Russia play the United States in Moscow today, in a landmark for the game in both countries. The Americans lost to Tatarstan in front of a crowd of almost 10,000 earlier this week.