26-05-2025
Why having to go all out against Castleford is a good thing for Warrington Wolves
WITH a Challenge Cup Final on the horizon, conversations about squad rotation usually dominate the build-up to the final Super League game before Wembley.
For Warrington Wolves, however, that is a luxury they are unlikely to have – but could that be a good thing?
Prop Joe Philbin believes having no alternative but to go into Friday's clash with Castleford Tigers at full-throttle will help them out as they look to build confidence heading into their big date with Hull KR.
Even looking at the Super League table, it is a game The Wire could do with winning to avoid extending what is already their worst run of consecutive league defeats under Sam Burgess and avoid them being cut further adrift of the play-offs.
'In the past, it would have been a tricky thing to deal with,' said Philbin, who missed last year's Challenge Cup Final having sustained an injury just two weeks before the game.
'I've been in that kind of situation where we've rested people but we don't have the luxury of being able to do that this year.
'We have to go full force and I think that helps us.
'You just want to go in with a bit of confidence and playing well. Cas have been going well so we're looking forward to it.'
It would appear unlikely that any of Warrington's injured stars will be risked for Friday's Round 13 game at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, with two more picked up during the Wembley 'dress rehearsal' against Hull KR last weekend that saw a depleted Wire side beaten 31-12.
Oli Leyland (knee) and Jordy Crowther (ankle) join the walking wounded, which could bring more opportunities for those on the fringes of the first team.
Hooker Ben Hartill and forwards Max Wood and Tom Whitehead came into the 17 last week and Philbin says whoever comes in, they have the full faith of their teammates behind them.
And while things are difficult currently, the Warringtonian front-rower believes being written off suits them.
'One man's downfall in a team game is another man's opportunity,' he said.
'We see all of these lads in training so we've got so much confidence in them.
'I think some of our best performances this year have been when our backs have been against the wall – I think we thrive in that environment.
'I feel confident and excited for the next few weeks.
'Cas have been playing pretty well recently so we'll fly into that game, and then it's Wembley.
'Whoever turns up on the day will win but it's a huge game and I can't wait for it.'
