SAINTS are waiting to learn if they have secured the green light to use Langtree Park to its full 18,000 capacity after the stadium came through its first big test.

The arena, constructed at a cost of £30m according to the club’s latest figures, welcomed nearly 12,000 supporters through the turnstiles against Widnes last Friday night. The event, a key test event for the stadium and the surrounding transport and parking network, appeared to go relatively smoothly.

Saints chiefs believe major hurdles were cleared but concede the pre-season fixture threw up a list of challenges that the club’s staff are working to resolve.

Some supporters raised gripes, ranging from the puddles on the stadium’s concourse to sluggish service at food and drink kiosks.

Stewards were also called to the West Stand prior to kick off - after terracing appeared to become congested in some parts – and moved pockets of supporters to seating areas.

The club believes some supporters who had seating tickets may have moved to the standing zone, creating a problem.

Speaking to the Star, chairman Eamonn McManus said: “We achieved all we wanted to in terms of getting the big things right. The car parking and the health and safety all went fine.

“There were teething problems, in terms of service at the kiosks – which we learned a lot from. There will be a big improvement by the time we get around to Salford. There is a misconception that we are waiting for a health and safety certificate – we already have that but it is for a reduced 12,000 capacity. Friday was a test event to put it up to full capacity – we are in the process of meeting with the council and that will be determined in the next few days.”

Heavy rainfall throughout Friday resulted in puddles forming on the stadium’s open concourses behind the West and North stands where bars, food kiosks and toilets are located.

The club identified the problem last autumn and secured planning permission before the turn of the year to erect steel cladding to protect the walkways from the elements.

However, it is understood storm damage sustained to the roof early in January delayed the work, while Saints have also been examining whether to tweak the initial cladding designs.

The issue has caused mutterings of unrest among some supporters but it is believed Saints will make a formal announcement once they have settled on a clear design policy and timetable for the work.

The stadium’s grand opening takes place on Friday, February 10, when Salford are the visitors.

Meanwhile, St Helens Chamber’s annual dinner on Friday night will be the first major corporate event hosted at Langtree Park.