Warrington Wolves’ George Williams has spoken about the pain that prompted his desire for the Challenge Cup

“But the goal doesn’t change for me: I’m still trying to win something with Warrington. We have a great opportunity this weekend which is good. I have family and friends who support Wigan so hopefully I can beat them.” The pain of coming so close to Cup glory still shines through for Williams, though. He was part of the Wigan side that lost 18-14 to holders Hull in 2017. Williams, crucially, missed two conversion attempts.

The former Great Britain ace, back from a one-game ban for tomorrow’s big game, recalled: “We were favourites. It was a close match. I scored first and I remember it was very hot. Normally it’s on the last day of the Cup. We were beaten. But I don’t think we deserved to win when I look back on it. We’ve obviously never won the Challenge Cup yet. That was my last taste of it. Seven years ago. But I still remember the disappointment I felt afterwards. I want to correct some mistakes now.

“Hull went back to back which was disappointing for us. But I won’t worry too much about it. I have one more opportunity here and I’m going to go full steam ahead.” Williams’ battle with Man of Steel Bevan French will be fascinating. And as much as Warrington’s main objective has long been a first league title since 1955, the Cup still has real allure. Williams, 29, added: “It’s something I dreamed about when I was a kid.

“I’ve been lucky enough to win quite a bit in my career: a couple of Grand Finals and a Club World Challenge. But I never had this one. I think it will taste really good and I’m watching it. It’s a tough test coming up but Wigan are thinking the same thing and I’m looking forward to the challenge.