Sam Burgess says Warrington Wolves are ‘winning’ against Wigan Warriors

Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors met in a dress rehearsal for the Challenge Cup final, with Wigan coming out on top in a close encounter. Sam Burgess has named a much-changed Warrington team for the clash.

Wigan Warriors were heavy favorites for the game once the team news was announced. Warrington’s side featured nine changes from their win over Catalans Dragons in Perpignan and when the 17-man squad was announced, it featured four debutants – Cai Taylor-Wray, Jake Thewlis, Nolan Tupaea and Ben Hartill.

However, despite predictions that Warrington would struggle, Warrington raced into a 12-point lead thanks to a Stefan Ratchford penalty and tries from Arron Lindop and Josh Drinkwater. However, Wigan hit back before the break, scoring a three-try blitz through Junior Nsemba, Liam Marshall and Kruise Leeming.

Harry Smith scored a decisive drop goal on the stroke of half-time before Stefan Ratchford scored Warrington’s last try to set up a nervy finish. However, the game was defined by a red card for Adam Keighran, who is in danger of missing the Challenge Cup final.

QUIZ: Can you name these 10 Warrington players from the Super League era?

Sam Burgess proud of young squad

Credit: Imago Images

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Burgess could not hide his pride in his young side. Against a strong Wigan side, Burgess was delighted to see his side compete. He believes his side left the field having secured a win, even if they didn’t take home two precious competition points.

“I am very proud of the team, I played with a very young team. Four guys on debut and 10 guys from our scholarship system.

“It was probably the most enjoyable game of the year, I’m so proud of them. They faced a great Wigan team and were right in it until the end.

“I’m very happy with the way we played and even though we didn’t get the two points, I think it’s a win for us.”

Wigan are back level with St Helens at the top of the Super League table on 20 points, although the Warriors have a game in hand. Warrington slip back to third, two points behind the leading defender.

Speaking before the match, Burgess said he believed it was a big challenge for his young players. He believed that the opportunity to make his debut in front of a large crowd would be invaluable.

“It will be a big challenge for our guys. They will love to take. We will do our best in front of a big crowd. It’s a great place to debut.”