For Giants

and Salford.

The Giants postponed their second match, which was s cheduled for last Monday – at home to St Helens – as it clashed with Huddersfield Town’s Sky Bet Championship play-off final at Wembley, which the RFL sanctioned.

As a result, Huddersfield had enjoyed a nine-day gap since their last fixture, with Warrington playing three times in the same period, although Smith wanted to draw a line under the matter after seeing his team’s winless run extended to four matches.

He said: “Let’s not start that debate, I don’t want to go and make excuses.

“We had two matches last weekend and that was obvious.

“I said what I needed to say last week and the whys and what-fors, but well done to Huddersfield – they were the better team and I would rather say that and congratulate them than take anything away from their performance.”

The Wolves shipped eight tries against their top-eight hopefuls and the Australian ex-Giants boss gave a damning review of his side’s defensive display.

Smith added: “If you are a Warrington fan at the moment, it’s tough to watch, it’s tough to participate in as well and it’s hurting the boys.

“They are hurting about their performance and we haven’t really recovered since the Magic Weekend and it’s damaged our confidence.

“Some of our defence close to our try line just isn’t strong enough, when your opponents opt to go for points rather than the shot at goal then it tells you something about your defence.

“Huddersfield got it right on the day.

“We came here with some high hopes and came here anticipating a good win so yeah absolutely, we are disappointed.”