May 2005
29th May. Warrington 38 Wakefield 30. This was definately a game of two halves I know because one started at the beginning , the other half way though the game. Warrington it seemed were under the impression that thay had to start the second half like they started the first half by letting Wakefield score two tries without reply, and then play catch up. Highlight of the game was a try by fullback Brent Gross, who took a punt on his own try line and somehow managed to touch down under the sticks after giving some players two goes to catch him.Warrington Tries Brent Grose 1,Martin Gleeson, Henry Fa'afilli 1, Nathan Wood 2, Logan Swann 2 Goals Chris Bridge 5. Wakefield Tries: Colum Halpenny 1, Semi Tadulala 1, Ben Jeffries 1 David March 1, Goals Jamie Rooney 4. Teams : Warrington 1. Brent Grose 2. Henry Fa'afili 3. Martin Gleeson 4. Toa Kohe Love25. Chris Bridge 6. Lee Briers 7. Nathan Wood 8. Chris Leikvoll 9. Jon Clarke 10. Mark Hilton 11. Logan Swann 12. Mike Wainwright 15. Ben Westwood. SUBS: 13. Paul Noone Sponsor:14. Mark Gleeson 16. Paul Wood 17. Danny Lima. Wakefield : 2 1.Mark Field 1. Colum Halpenny 3. Jason Demetriou 4. Sid Domic 5. Semi Tadulala 6. Jamie Rooney 7. Ben Jefferies 8. Darrell Griffin 9. David March 27. Chris Feather 12. Jamie Field 16. Steve Snitch 13. Rob Spicer 10. Michael Korkidas 14. Sam Obst 17. Duncan McGillivray 18. Olivier Elima .HT 24-12 attd. 10,013.
26th May. Paul Cullen is in the happy situation of having practically a full squad to pick from for the game against Wakefield on Sunday at the Halliwell Jones Stadium Kick Off 3pm. Lee Briers and Graham Appo are fit to return and Nathan Wood has recovered from the injury he picked against Bradford last weekend as has Mark Hilton. None can expected to be automatic selections after the show put on by such as Chris Bridge who scored 24 points at Bradford, Bridge considered by many to be Briers understudy is fast making his mark in his own right. Paul Cullen commenting on the happy situation said "I honestly can't remember being in this position before, and it is a real boost to the squad," he said. "As most coaches do at this stage of the year, I pushed one or two players who were not 100 per cent onto the field against Wigan and Bradford, and maybe we will have the luxury not to do that this weekend. It just shows that the recruitment policy at the back end of last year is working for us - we have some younger players who are pushing the senior players very hard, and the senior players are not taking the option not to play. "They've strapped up and pushed themselves back out there, and on this form no-one's an automatic choice." Paul considers that the current team is the best he has had at his disposal since taking over the reins at Warrington 3 years ago when Wire were fighting then threat of constant relegation after suffering 5 year plans under other coaches , when what was needed was a plan for the day at hand. He further added: "It has been my ambition from day one to create this competition, and this isn't the squad that I inherited back in 2002 when we were staring relegation in the face. "It's taken a long time to break that existing squad down and get us to this level, but we're not satisfied with what we've got. At the minute we are fifth in the table, but we haven't got to a Challenge Cup Final and we haven't got to a Grand Final yet, and we want players at this club who can get us there. There's still an awful lot of work to be done and an awful lot of points to be proved. "It is the Roger Bannister four-minute mile scenario - men have been trying to do it since time immemorial, and all of a sudden once it was broken the floodgates opened and people were breaking it for fun. "That's how significant we see our victory at Bradford, because we've got closer and closer in the past couple of seasons to the likes of Hull, Wigan and St Helens. "Wins against them were almost impossible to consider at one point, and now they're not. "Certain victories and performances take on lives of their own, and the Bradford one does." Cullen siad the victory in the same league as the win against Castleford to get safety in from relegation 2002, last year's win against Wigan, and the play-off place by beating Wakefield in the last game at Wilderspool. That game ,along with win against Wildcats in the first match at The Halliwell Jones Stadium last February - bring back good memories for Cullen. "They were special days," he said. "The pressure not to lose either of those games was unbelievably intense, and it's probably one of the highlights of my playing and coaching career that we went down in the record books as winning the last game at Wilderspool and the first at the Halliwell Jones. "You can't rewrite history and we played our part in that." And Paulknow nothing is set in stone and Wire will have to keep the intestity going. He said: "We have not basked in the glory of the Bradford victory for too long and have set our focus on Wakefield. "We know they have talent in their ranks and are determined not to give them a chance to show it. "You can't guarantee performances no team or coach can but we are well prepared for the match."
The first meeting with Wigan under lan Millward will be the televised match at the JJB Stadium on July 9 -it will now kick off at 7.05pm due to a change in Sky's scheduling.
Rd15 Team News Paul Cullen has named his initial 20-man squad to face the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats this Sunday at the Halliwell-Jones Stadium, kick-off 3pm: 1. Brent Grose 2. Henry Fa'afili 3. Martin Gleeson 4. Toa Kohe Love 5. Dean Gaskell 6.Lee Briers 7. Nathan Wood 8. Chris Leikvoll 9. Jon Clarke 10. Mark Hilton 11. Logan Swann 12. Mike Wainwright 13. Paul Noone 14. Mark Gleeson 15. Ben Westwood 16. Paul Wood 17. Danny Lima 18. Graham Appo 22. Steve Pickersgill 25. Chris Bridge INJURY NEWS: 19. Daryl Cardiss - hamstring/back pre-season injury sustained pre-Boxing Day friendly v Widnes (26/12/04) 21. Simon Grix - fractured fibula/ankle socket, dislocated ankle and torn ligaments sustained in U21s grading fixture v Leeds Rhinos (26/02/05) ON LOAN: 20. Warren Stevens U21s: 23. Andrew Bracek 26. Nicky Royle
Daryl Cardiss could return from injury when Wolves' under 21s team take on Wakefield Trinity Wildcats at Wilderspool on Saturday at 11.30am. The under 18s also play at Wilderspool against Huddersfield Giants on the same day, kick-off 1.45pm.
Paul Cullens gives his view on the round 14 victory over Bradford and looks towards this weekends clash at the Halliwell-Jones Stadium against Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
DID BREAKING THE WOLVES SUPERLEAGUE DUCK AT ODSAL MAKE THIS A SPECIAL WIN? Any win against Bradford is a significant victory; at Odsal, against a full strength Bulls team, coming from 24.8 behind without our starting half backs, in the style that we did is little short of remarkable. 24 - 8
DOWN AFTER 50 MINUTES, WHAT WAS THE CATLYST THAT TURNED THE GAME ON ITS HEAD? The 1st 50 minutes, we soaked up everything they had to throw at us and then hit them back. We did not play poorly in the opening 25 minutes before we scored, Bradford were very good and dominated the field position and ball possession, we believed that if we could stay with them we could open them up and finish stronger. Mark Hilton only got 15 mins and Nat Wood only got to half time but by then we had taken all their best shots. It was a great team effort to beat Bradford by that score, in that style; when not at full strength.
DOES CHRIS BRIDGE'S FORM AND THE RETURN OF LEE BRIERS AND GRAHAM APPO FROM INJURY GIVE YOU A SELECTION HEADACHE AHEAD OF THIS WEEK'S GAME? No it gives me an opportunity not to push out injured players on to the field like I had to do against Wigan and Bradford.
WAKEFIELD HAS HAD A JEKYL AND HYDE TYPE OF SEASON, WHAT KIND OF WAKEFIELD ARE YOU PREPARED FOR? The one that beat Leeds at Headingley.
WHAT IS THE INJURY NEWS AHEAD OF SUNDAY'S GAME? We hope to have Hilton, Nathan Wood, Briers and Appo all available by 2.00pm Thursday, which is the 72 hours pre game cut off point.
ADRIAN MORLEY HAS AGAIN BEEN LINKED WITH THE WOLVES THIS WEEK ALONG WITH PAUL RAUHIHI, IS THERE ANY TRUTH IN THE STORIES REPORTED? It's best to concentrate on the players that are contracted to play for us for 2005, they deserve our undivided attention. We never make comment on any player we have not signed; we never smoke screen our supporters with promises of what we can't deliver.
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON THE NEW SUPERLEAGUE PROPOSALS REGARDING EXPANSION AND A NEW FRANCHISE SYSTEM? Our Focus is on nothing else but beating Wakefield.
24th May.Wolves Showcase Future Stars The Wolves held two major tag festivals last week as part of their Primary Link scheme. Over 500 boys and girls took part in the events held at Bank Park and Burtonwood. The 2nd annual Mayor's Tag Festival was held on the Town Hall lawns and 14 schools took part including some from out reach areas such as Lymm and Croft, With Danny Lima and Wolfie on hand to present the awards, the festival was a huge success. The fair play award went to Stockton Heath Primary School. On Thursday Burtonwood Bulldogs hosted a tag festival at Fir Tree Lane playing fields, with Wolves Mark Gleeson an interested spectator. In this event which again took place in glorious sunshine, Burtonwood were the recipients of the fair play award. Sean Mellor, Community and Marketing Manager commented, "These festivals are the culmination of our coaching within the schools. They give the boys and girls the opportunity to showcase the skills they have acquired. Tag rugby provides an introduction to our sport and judging by the excellent levels of skill and enthusiasm we have seen this week, some of these players may be Wolves stars of the future" All pupils that took part in the tag festivals will be presented to the Halliwell Jones crowd at the Wolves v London Broncos Superleague fixture on 17 July 2005. For more information on the Wolves Community Projects email community@warringtonwolves.com
23rd May. Rumours are afoot that Warrington have signed New Zealand Test star and North Queensland Captain Paul Rauhihi, Warrington press office was none committal and any announcement would be made at a press conference.
22nd May. Bradford 24 Warrington 44. Warrington have done the double over Bradford for the first time since 1979/80. Bradford opened the scoring after 6 minutes when Wire dropped the ball in their own 10 and Vainikola ran in to score on 6 minutes, Wire draw level after 26 minutes when Gleson put Chris Bridge in under the posts, Bridge goaled to make it 6 all. Bradford replied when Peacock went in after 36 minutes, Deacon goaled to make it 12-6. Wire got a penalty after Nathan Wood was obstructed HT 12-8. The second half started with Stuart Reardon scoring for Bradford, Deacon goaled to make it 18-8. Bradford further increased their score when Iestyn Harris went in, Deacon goaled to make it 24-8. Paul Noone gets over behind the posts to keep Warrington in the game, Bridge goals and the score is Bradford 24 Wire 14. A purple patch for Wire sees Koa - Love going under the posts after 14 minutes, Bridge goals and its 24 -20 . Paul Wood has the Wire fans going Beswerk as he goes in near the posts, Bridge gets his fourth goal and the score is 24-26 to Wire.Danny Lima crashes in to add to the 2 tries he scored against Wigan, Bridge goals and the score is Bradford 24 Warrington 32. Chris Bridge slips through the Bradford defence to score a great try, Bridge goals his own try and Wire are 38 - 24 in front with 4 minutes to play.Fa'afili intercepts and scores to rub salt into the Bradford wounds, the final hooter goes and Wire win 44-24. Coach Paul Cullen: "We are happy to chew up those statistics and spit them out. "Bradford dominated at one stage but we didn't panic and just stuck at it. "This is a clear indication of our character and ability. This team now knows how to fight." Bradford Tries: Reardon Peacock Vainikolo Harris Warrington Tries: Noone Bridge 2 Fa'afili Love Wood Lima, Goals Bridge 8. Teams Bradford: Withers, Pratt, Reardon, K. Pryce, Vainikolo, I. Harris, Paul, Vagana, Deacon, Fielden, Peacock, Parker, Radford. Replacements: L. Pryce, B. Harris, Langley, Lynch. Warrington: Grose, Fa'afili, M. Gleeson, Kohe-Love, Gaskell, Bridge, N. Wood, Leikvoll, Clarke, Hilton, Swann, Wainwright, Westwood. Replacements: Noone, M. Gleeson, P. Wood, Lima. Attn.14,428
19th May. Rd14 Team News Head coach Paul Cullen has named his initial 20 man squad to face the Bradford Bulls this Sunday at Odsal in Round 14 of the engage Super League. 1. Brent Grose 2. Henry Fa'afili 3. Martin Gleeson 4. Toa Kohe Love 5. Dean Gaskell 6. Lee Briers 7. Nathan Wood 8. Chris Leikvoll 9. Jon Clarke 10. Mark Hilton 11. Logan Swann 12. Mike Wainwright 13. Paul Noone 14. Mark Gleeson 15. Ben Westwood 16. Paul Wood 17. Danny Lima 22. Steve Pickersgill 23. Andrew Bracek 25. Chris Bridge INJURY NEWS: 18. Graham Appo - recovering from a knee op (2/5/05) 19. Daryl Cardiss - hamstring/back pre-season injury sustained pre-Boxing Day friendly v Widnes (26/12/04) 21. Simon Grix - fractured fibula/ankle socket, dislocated ankle and torn ligaments sustained in U21s grading fixture v Leeds Rhinos (26/02/05) ON LOAN: 20. Warren Stevens U21s: 26. Nicky Royle
Paul Cullen has singled Mark Gleeson out for the good work he is doing at Warrington after the player signed a new two-year contract, keeping him at the Halliwell Jones Stadium until the end of the 2007 season. 22-year-old Gleeson, younger brother of Warrington’s Great Britain centre Martin, has been with the Wolves since 1999, having come through their academy. “I am pleased to commit to the Wolves for another two years,” he said. “I have enjoyed my time at the club and want that to continue for the foreseeable future.” Commenting coach Paul Cullen said: "I think Mark's form is very good. He's getting more game time than he had last year per individual game, and his vision at the ruck is a great bonus for us. His pace and his agility are an even bigger bonus. "And. where some hookers will occasionally be targeted in defence by attackers, in a similar way to halfbacks, Mark is learning to stay on his feet, hit and stick, and force people to run elsewhere. "I've no doubt in my mind the best is yet to come from Mark." he added "Mark still plays well above his weight. As he physically matures he will be able to keep weight on him, which he finds very difficult at the moment. "He trains as hard as any other player we've got on the books but he has that metabolism that doesn't allow him to keep an awful lot of body weight. To be fair, playing serious game time in the front row doesn't allow you to hold much body weight. "That can only be achieved over a matter of time. If you try and put too much weight on young players too early, it can really knock them off their game. As he matures he'll have far more confidence in his physical ability to defend, to go with his superb technique." "He's very happy here, even more so with his brother now being with us. That's a relationship that is very special and I think it's evident for all to see that both of the Gleesons are thoroughly enjoying their time with us."
Cullens Comment Paul Cullen gives his thoughts on the win over Wigan Warriors on Sunday and the extension to Mark Gleesons contract announced today.
ANOTHER TOP 6 SCALP AT THE HALLIWELL JONES STADIUM, ARE CURRENT PERFORMANCES EXCEEDING YOUR PRE-SEASON EXPECTATIONS?No, it was the earlier results that failed to match our expectations. It has been a great lesson in how to work when it does not go your way.
ARE YOU FEELING RELIEVED THAT ALL THE HARDWORK IS STARTING TO PAY OFF? No, simply challenged to better the current form.
WHY DID YOU FEEL THE NEED TO EMPLOY MIKE FORSHAW AS A DEFENSIVE COACH?Mike has been employed by us since last November, since his retirement; in a part time category whilst working full time with the RFL performance department. We manage 14 teams, approximately 300 players ranging from 12 to 32. There is a demand to expand our staff to service the needs of all our players. Mike will work for us in a variety of roles across a broad section of our age groups.
BRADFORD WILL BE GUNNING FOR REVENGE ON SUNDAY, WHAT KIND OF GAME ARE YOU EXPECTING?I don't think the Bulls will waste any prep time on revenge tactics they will simply prepare to exploit our weaknesses and to protect the weaknesses we found in their line.
WHAT IS THE INJURY NEWS AHEAD OF SUNDAY'S GAME?No further injuries from the Wigan game.
MATT ORFORD'S NAME HAS BEEN LINKED WITH WARRINGTON WOLVES NOW FOR THE LAST FEW WEEKS, WHAT KIND OF EFFECT DO YOU FEEL TRANSFER SPECULATION HAS ON YOUR SQUAD?We never make any comment on players we have not signed.
MARK GLEESON HAS SIGNED A TWO YEAR EXTENSION TO HIS CURRENT CONTRACT. DO YOU SEE HIM AS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE CURRENT AND FUTURE SQUAD?He is a player who is playing very well and has massive potential. He plays well above his weight and has great vision at the ruck.
IS THE DOOR STILL OPEN FOR PLAYERS OFF CONTRACT AT THE END OF THE YEAR TO BE REWARDED WITH A NEW DEAL?Yes and I think we a seeing a reaction to this situation. Source Wolfmail
Wire hope to achieve their first double win over Bradford in 25 years when they take on the Bulls at Odsal on Sunday, The Warrington Guardian informed Paul Cullen about the last double in the 1979-80 season. "Every time I pick up the Warrington Guardian I see that we've broken another Super League record, whether it be attendance, consecutive wins or points scored, and it reflects the return to confidence from a period early on where we were wobbled. "We've had a good six weeks and completely transformed our position. Mondays have been good after matches - the players have been bright, happy and cheerful, and it's good to be around the place. But we fully understand how quickly that can change. All we've got to do is remember the Salford game and the wounds are still very raw." Paul added: "What's seen in training sessions are players looking over their shoulders because, with being fortunate with injuries lately, they can see others waiting to take their spot off them if their form drops. "Those injuries that we have had we've managed very well. Against Wigan at the weekend, we pushed a couple of bodies out on the field who were uncertain at the start of the week. And I've got no doubt that the threat of losing their position to a young player who is champing at the bit was a part of their decision-making process. They opted to strap themselves up, got through the game and they're better for it."
Coach Cullen is to have another look to see if Lee Briers or Graham Appo will be fit to take on Bradford, but no chances will be taken if they are not quite ready.
17th May.Paul Cullen's thoughts on the win over Wigan ,Cullen, a former Warrington forward, said: “It is one of those special days – full house, sun shining, team in good form and also going on to win. “The players celebrated at the end. That just shows the importance of the game - Wigan games are special. “I came here in 1980 and have been part of many muggings from Wigan. But that was not a mugging. “We out-played Wigan – we out-thought and out-fought them. You can’t coach character but we had it in abundance. “I don’t fall for the Wigan are weaker and have injuries line. That was a very good Wigan side and we have taken them on blow for blow.” Cullen also praised scrum-half Wood, whom he believed found extra motivation from the stories linking him with a move to Wigan last year. Cullen said: “I am 100% certain of that. He was sensational. Someone somewhere had written a script for him.”
15th May. Warrington 28 Wigan 22.Wire go Fifth after two late tries stun Wigan at the Halliwell Jones Stadium the last one a superb interception from Nathan Wood and go above the Wigan in the Super League table. Wigan had led 22-12 with 20 minutes to go after tries from Martin Aspinwall, Danny Tickle and Dennis Moran. But Wire hit back with a Logan Swann try before Danny Lima crossed for his second with just nine minutes left. Nathan Wood then intercepted a Moran pass for the vital try and the Wolves hung on despite late Wigan pressure. Warrington: Tries: Wainwright, Lima (2), Swann, Wood Goals: Bridge (4) Tries: Aspinwall, Tickle, Moran Goals: Tickle (5) Warrington: Grose, Faa'fili, M Gleeson, Kohe-Love, Gaskell, Bridge, N Wood, Leikvoll, Clarke, Hilton, Swann, Wainwright, Westwood. Replacements: M. Gleeson, P. Wood, Lima, Noone. Wigan: Brown, Dallas, Vaealiki, Aspinwall, Carney, Orr, Moran, Seu Seu, Newton, Guisset, Hansen, Wild, Tickle. Replacements: Godwin, Allen, McDonald, Sculthorpe. Ht 12-12 Attn 12,790
14th May. Wire get to 6th in the Super league table courtesy of Salford's 58-0 thrashing by Bradford Bulls.
12th May.Wolves -v- Wigan A Sellout? Warrington Wolves are heading for their first sell-out of the Engage Super League X season with fewer than 100 tickets left for the Martin Dawes East Stand, which is anticipated to sell out before the weekend. This stand has sold out for 5 of the 6 home games this season. Almost 900 tickets have been sold for the North Stand, which is more than any other game so far this season (including the SL10 attendance record vs. St Helens), meaning that there are approximately 150 seats available. There are now fewer than 400 tickets available for the South Stand meaning fans will need to purchase a ticket in advance to guarantee entry as it is expected that the stand will sell out before Sundays game. As all home areas look to sell out immanently, Warrington fans will be allowed access to the West Stand and will be able to pay at these turnstiles. Dave Gittens, Ticket Co-ordinator commented, "Sales of tickets for Sunday's home game against Wigan Warriors have been phenomenal. It is looking like Sunday may be our first total sell-out of the season, reflecting the team's wonderful recent performances and the great atmosphere of a matchday at the Wolves. It is exciting that we are now recording consistent record numbers and seeing stands sell out on a regular basis since our move to the Halliwell Jones Stadium."Wigan team : Vaealiki, Dallas, Aspinwall, Wild, Carney, Brown, Moran, Seuseu, Newton, Sculthorpe, Guisset, Tickle, Allen, Godwin, Orr, McDonald, Hansen, Beswick. Melling, Hargreaves .
Get Your Wolfie Bam Bams! Mike Wainwright and Martin Gleeson - Bam! Bam!The Wolves have launched the latest matchday craze from the USA, the Wolfie Bam Bams. They come in pairs and when banged to together create a racket to blow the roof off the Halliwell Jones Stadium! The Bam Bams cost only £1.50 and are a ideal pocket money buy. They are available from Wolfware from Thursday 12 May and will be available in the South Stand, East Stand,North Stand prior to Sunday's home against Wigan Warriors. Join in the fun and get Bam Bamming!
50th Anniversary of Last Championship 1955 Championship Winners14th May 2005 marks the 50th anniversary of Warrington's last Rugby League Championship success. Brian Bevan scored Warrington's only try in a 7 - 3 win over Oldham at a muddy Maine Road, Manchester, in front of a crowd of 49,434. Harry Bath scored Warrington's other points with two goals. Warrington reached their fifth Championship final in eight years thanks to a two try performance from skipper Ally Naughton in a 17 - 9 play-off victory over Halifax at Wilderspool. First round defeats in both the Lancashire Cup and Challenge Cup allowed Warrington to concentrate on retaining their League Championship. Warrington finished top of the league with 29 wins and 2 draws from their 36 league matches. Oldham also finished with the same number of points but Warrington had a far superior points difference. Warrington and Oldham battled all season to finish top of the league. Warrington getting the upperhand by virtue of their two league wins over Oldham, 12 - 8 at Watersheddings and 18 - 4 at Wilderspool. Warrington also pipped Oldham for the Lancashire League title. Warrington used just 25 players all season, with full-back Eric Frodsham playing in all 36. Brian Bevan topped scored with 58 tries and Harry Bath kicked 110 goals in league matches.
As Wire prepare for Sundays clash against Wigan the Halliwell Jones Stadium it was announced that Mike Forshaw will be joining the Wire coaching staff full time after spending the earlier part of this season as part time defensive coach, Mike Wainwright has also agreed a one year extension to his current contract, which will keep him at the club till 2006. Wolves assistant coach Paul Darbyshire has praised Wainwright's contribution to the "Mike's been playing very well and has been a stalwart of the side in the last couple Of years," said Darbyshire. "Together with Logan Swann in the back row he's been the cornerstone of why, we've been playing well. "He's been around a long while now he joined the , club as a kid and I saw him , come all the way through from the Junior Academy but he's still not that old, and I wouldn't be surprised if his best years are in front of , him." It will be five home wins on the run should Warrington beat Wigan and I have to say I do fancy Wires chances of winning and I do not think that the way the team is playing it would be classed as a shock defeat or Wigan, and I would think it unfair if it was reported as such. graham Appo will be missing from the line up and Chris Leikvoll must also be marked doubtful with a slight knee injury, however Lee Briers has made a good recovery from a hamstring problem. Dean Gaskell is expected to play on the wing but Chris Bridge is also in contention. Bridges kicking ability could be a plus for him however and he may get the nod.
As reported Paul Cullen returned to the club on Monday and was satisfied with the trip but would not commit himself about any players he looked at , Melbourne Storm scrum-half Matt Orford, was a player in Cullens sights. He said: "It was a positive and productive trip, and there was a lot to get through in a 10-day period. "We spent a lot of time with the NRL clubs with coaches, chief executives, directors, media personalities, past players, current players and play ers' agents we sought out a number of agents as well as being sought by a number of them. "The trip was part of my coaching education, and it was something that was discussed with the board when I signed my contract extension last year."
Paul Cullen explains his recent trip to Australia and looks towards this weekends clash with rivals Wigan Warriors on Sunday.
EDGED OUT AGAIN BY SAINTS, WHAT ARE THE POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES YOU HAVE TAKEN FROM THAT GAME? The positive is the massive feeling of disappointment felt by all concerned by losing to a team as good as St Helens in such circumstances. We have been hammered by too much for too long and we are enjoying the fight to restore our pride in our performance in this fixture. The negative result fails to out balance the above!
IT HAS BEEN OVER TWO WEEKS SINCE YOUR LAST SUPERLEAGUE GAME, IS THE GAP A HELP OR A HINDERANCE? Only time will tell, but we were ready to rest some bumps and bruises.
HOW FRUITFUL WAS YOUR AUSTRALIA TRIP LAST WEEK? Very positive and very productive. The purpose was simply coach education, I discussed the idea with our Board when extending my contract last season and they supported my proposal when the opportunity presented. I was accompanied by Mike Forshaw, who has been working with the Wolves in a part time capacity since his retirement and who will join us on a full time basis next month. We covered the length and breadth of New South Wales, knocking on a lot of doors in what was an exhaustive 10 day fact finding trip. We spent time with Head Coaches, Directors, Chief Executives, Media representatives, Players Agents, Player Managers and a variety of past and current players. We asked a lot of questions and listened to a volume of advice and opinion covering the game in all its aspects. The challenge is to absorb all the information gathered and make efficient use of it.
WIGAN ARE STRUGGLING FOR FORM AS OF LATE WITH CLOSE RUN VICTORIES OVER WIDNES AND UTC, HOW WARY ARE YOU OF A DESPERATE WIGAN SIDE? Check their performance in similar circumstances when a very inexperienced Wigan team beat St Helens over Easter. We know we will have to be at our best to win this game and that is how we are preparing.
WHAT IS THE INJURY NEWS AHEAD OF SUNDAY’S GAME? Graham Appo will not be available; he has carried a knee injury for some time and had an operation whilst I was away. He is progressing well and I hope to have him available by the end of the month.
HOW PLEASED ARE YOU WITH THE START TO THE SEASON THE ACADEMY TEAMS HAVE HAD? All three are going very well, U21, U18 and U16. These results are performance indicators of how we are progressing and developing our long term strategies.
WERE YOU SURPRISED BY THE LACK OF WARRINGTON PLAYERS NAMED IN THE 40 MAN GB SQUAD, IN PARTICULAR BEN WESTWOOD NOT BEING SELECTED CONSIDERING HIS FORM THIS SEASON SO FAR? We are simply challenged by the decisions made and look forward to working even harder to reap the rewards.
WHAT WAS YOUR REASONING BEHIND THE CONTRACT EXTENSION OF MIKE WAINWRIGHT? Mike’s record this season of 13 games playing the full 80minutes warrants special credit alone.
IS THERE ANYMORE SIGNINGS IN THE OFFING? All clubs are currently and constantly in the business of retention and recruitment. We never make comment on anyone we have not signed! Source Wolfmail.
Legends dinner. Steve Hesford , John Bevan, Les Boyd and Wire coach Paul Cullen will be at a Sportsmans dinner at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on the 28th May, a comedian, guest speaker and a meal can be had for the sum of £35, past and present players are expected to attend, For tickets and enquiries about The Les Boyd Golf Day can be had on Warrington 414123, our Australian readers should ring +44 925 414123.
Paul Cullen has named his initial 20 man squad to face Wigan Warriors this Sunday in Round 13 of the engage Super League. 1. Brent Grose 2. Henry Fa'afili 3. Martin Gleeson 4. Toa Kohe Love 5. Dean Gaskell 6. Lee Briers 7. Nathan Wood 8. Chris Leikvoll 9. Jon Clarke 10. Mark Hilton 11. Logan Swann 12. Mike Wainwright 13. Paul Noone 14. Mark Gleeson 15. Ben Westwood 16. Paul Wood 17. Danny Lima 22. Steve Pickersgill 23. Andrew Bracek 25. Chris Bridge.
INJURY NEWS: 18. Graham Appo - recovering from a knee op (2/5/05) 19. Daryl Cardiss - hamstring/back pre-season injury sustained pre-Boxing Day friendly v Widnes (26/12/04) 21. Simon Grix - fractured fibula/ankle socket, dislocated ankle and torn ligaments sustained in U21s grading fixture v Leeds Rhinos (26/02/05).
ON LOAN: 20. Warren Stevens.
U21s: 26. Nicky Royle
Following the statement issued by Eamon McManus, Chairman of St. Helens Rugby League Club in relation to the termination of Ian Millward's contract, Warrington Wolves confirm that Lord Hoyle, the Clubs Chairman, wrote to their Chairman in regard to foul language being used against one of the club's employees. This course of action we would take for any one of our employees subjected to verbal abuse. Ian Millward subsequently apologised and this apology was accepted by our employee and with that the matter was closed as far as Warrington Wolves were concerned. The relationship between St. Helens and their Head Coach is a matter for them, as indeed is any action they take following their investigations.
10th May. Paul Cullen arrives back in the UK today after a week in Australia where he has been meeting a few people and looking at a few players including Matt Orford who stated he would come to the UK to play would would rather go to a club with a higher profile, he could go to Saints they have a high profile at the moment, but probably for all the wrong reasons. I take it he wants easy street and doesn't want to help to take a club on the up higher, well if that's his attitude he can stay where is as far as I am concerned.
Paul Cullen has been awarded the Coach of the Month award after Wire won 3 out of 4 games in rounds 9-12.Which incliuded a win over The Bradford Bulls.
Dean Gaskell could return against Wigan on Sunday next as Graham Appo will be unavailable for upto a month after having his knee cleaned out recently.
Warrington Wolves have had five players selected for the Lancashire Junior Academy (under 18) squad for the Origin match against Yorkshire at the Halton Stadium, Widnes on Saturday 21 May, kick-off 3.30pm. This year's U18s Lancashire Junior Academy Coach is the Wolves' Scholarship Manager Vinny Webb. The players are: * Chris Riley, a 17 year old winger or full-back. He has played in the academy grading matches for both the under 18s and under 21s. He was a member of last season's Foundation Academy (under 16s) team. * Andrew Bracek, an 18 year old forward signed from St Helens at the end of the 2004 season. He has made 5 Super League appearances as substitute this season. He went on last season's successful Great Britain Junior Academy tour of Australasia. * Ben Harrison, a 17 year old forward. He has played in the academy grading matches for both the under 18s and under 21s. He was a member of last season's Foundation Academy (under 16s) team. He captained England Schools (Under 16s) last season. * Luke Murfin, an 18 year old back row forward. In his second season at Warrington Wolves, he too has been a regular in the Under 18s and played some matches for the Under 21s. * Kyle Neal, a 17 year old prop forward. He will celebrate his 18th birthday the day before the Origin match. He is in his second season at Warrington Wolves. Senior Academy Coach Gary Chambers commented, "We are delighted with the selection of these five players. This is a great honour for the players and Warrington Wolves and vindication of the youth policy now in operation at the Club. "This year's Junior Academy Origin match is of significant importance as it will be integral to the selection of the England Academy side that will play France in the summer. There are no Senior Academy & Junior Academy Championship matches that weekend, so we hope that Wilderspool regulars for academy matches will get along to Widnes to support these five lads."
5th May. Paul Cullen wasted no time in jetting off to Australia after the St Helens game, with Wire having a free weekend due to an early exit from the Challenge Cup. The aim of the visit is to take a look at some players that Wire are looking at to sign for next season. Warrington spent over £300,000 in the last 12 months to bring in 7 players with the help of the financial clout of Simon Moran who is a majority Shareholder at the club. Cullen is conscious of the fact that a targeted player is not necessarily going to sign for the club so a number of players are being looked at, Cullen is due back in Warrington on Monday after taking a look at NRL training methods. Wolves CEO Andy Gatcliffe said "He is looking at who is available, he has a lot to do in a short space of time, we are open minded and he is talking to people we want to make progress and take the club forward, although reluctant to talk of specific people Matt Orford and NTH Queensland's Paul Rauhihi are thought to be of interest. A number of players are out of contract at the end of the season including MikeWainwright, Mark Gleeson and Toa Kohe Love, a number of players will be offered the chance to extend their contracts as LeeBriers and Brent Grose have done recently. Cullen looks to getting as many players as possible tied to new contracts as soon as possible and cite the example of Ben Westwood who was given a 3 year contract when his form was not at it's best the move was criticised at the time but his form has improved greatly this year. Said Cullen "We have players that are out of contract and are fighting to have then renewed and they have been offered the facility to do that, we have not found any players to occupy those posts and it is within our right to do that, the bottom line is that they are two players who are out of contract at the wnd of the season ,and it is no secret that we are looking to bring the best players in the world to this club".
Henry Fa'afili has gone 4th in the try charts with 11 tries this season and has reached a great vein of form. A lot of it is a growing understanding he has reached with his centre Martin Gleeson.