WOLVES GET A WAKE-UP CALL
CHRIS CHESTER took a swipe at the doubters after underdogs Wakefield stunned the Wolves.
Trinity had suffered an embarrassing 30-12 defeat at relegation candidates Hull KR in their opening game whereas Warrington whitewashed champions St Helens.
But Wakefield deservedly came out on top (above) to the delight of Chester, who said: “It’s massive for us. A lot’s been said about us, but we have quietened a few people with that result.
“I am pleased for the players because they cop it just as much as I do. I am really proud of everyone’s efforts.”
Warrington’s marquee signing Gareth Widdop made his much-anticipated debut, following a pre-season injury.
But hopes fell flat of the Great Britain star adding more magic to a Wolves side that had trounced Saints.
Coach Steve Price was more bothered his talented squad failed to impose themselves on a side that flirted with relegation last year.
He said: “I am certainly not happy because we expect better. It was a frustrating game.
“Our tactical discipline with the ball let us down and there were times when I did not think we were at the races.”
Warrington led 2-0 at the break with a Stefan Ratchford penalty, but Wakefield seized control with three penalties from Ryan Hampshire.
The first try took over an hour to arrive with Widdop playing a part in Ratchford’s converted effort. But Wakefield hit back with two tries in the last nine minutes from Matty Ashurst and Tom Johnstone.
St Helens Wigan Huddersfield Hull Castleford Leeds Warrington Catalans Wakefield Hull K R Salford Toronto
P WD 3 2 0 3 2 0 2 2 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 2 1 0 3 1 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 3 0 0
L 1 1 0 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 2 3
F 80 60 44 73 62 56 37 48 30 56 42 36
A Pt 45 4 36 4 22 4 52 4 58 4 40 2 34 2 50 2 38 2 89 2 76 2 84 0