St Helens eased to a 38-18 victory over Halifax in Mike Bennett’s testimonial match at Knowsley Road on Friday night.



New signing Sia Soliola’s second try in four days was the highlight of a good first-half performance in which Saints gained a 28-6 lead.



Leon Pryce touched down twice and other tries came from James Roby, Maurie Fa’asavalu, Gary Wheeler and Paul Wellens. Kyle Eastmond kicked four goals and beneficiary Bennett added one conversion during a brief late appearance.



James Haley, Dylan Nash and Luke Branighan scored Halifax’s tries, with Lee Patterson kicking three goals.



Meanwhile, Saints winger Francis Meli has returned to New Zealand on compassionate leave.



The 30-year-old former Kiwi international has been given permission by his club to tend to a family matter but is expected to return towards the back end of next week.