Rugby, Australian Football: Saints extend deal

St Helens are celebrating a 500,000 windfall after announcing a three-year extension to their sponsorship deal with retailer all:sports.

The agreement, which followed a successful 12-month trial, is thought to represent the biggest cash sponsporship in Super League.

"This deal is worth half a million pounds in cash to us over the next three years and we're very proud to have achieved it," said St Helens chief executive Sean McGuire.

The cash injection is another timely boost for the reigning Challenge Cup holders, who expect to report a profit for 2004 after accumulating losses of more than 1million in the previous two years.

"It shows the club is very viable in the market place," said coach Ian Millward. "The squad for 2005 is settled but I am sure some of the money will be channelled into players in the future."

Sportinglife