It was a comfortable night for Warrington Wolves as they ran out 26-6 winners against Ian Watson’s Huddersfield Giants.
Despite the game getting off to a slow start, Wire really showed their class once the first try was scored as Jake Mamo drove over after good work from Josh Thewlis on the right-hand side.
The try scorer drove over once more 10 minutes later as the visitors broke forward after claiming possession after a Will Pryce kick with no Huddersfield full-back present. Mamo took full advantage of it and ran the ball into the corner to put the Wolves firmly in the driving seat.
Warrington’s number 18 nearly had a first-half hat-trick as he looked to score again but a last-ditch tackle from Chris McQueen kept the score at 14-0. However, the Giants’ second-row kept held onto Mamo for too long and saw a yellow card for not allowing Wire to restart play quickly which would’ve been a definite try.
The second half was a quiet one from both sides with not many clear cut chances going either way.
Ian Watson’s side lacked any real cutting edge going forward and it looked fairly simple for Warrington as they cruised to victory. If the two points weren’t already sealed, Mike Cooper made sure of the win as he latched onto a great right-footed pass from Gareth Widdop.
Huddersfield were able to finally reply with their first bit of attacking quality as a high looped kick into the far corner was caught and claimed by Jake Wardle who touched down to finally get the Giants on the scoreboard.
The joy of a long-awaited try for the Giants was short-lived as Wire rounded off the scoring with another try as Toby King drove over for Wire’s fourth try of the night.
Stefan Ratchford was reliable as ever with four from four conversions and a penalty kick to give himself a 100% record on the night and ensure his side left the John Smith’s Stadium with all the points.
Another stand out was George Williams who’s kicking game was brilliant to watch throughout the 80 minutes in Yorkshire.
During the post-match press conference, Warrington Wolves Head Coach Steve Price was pleased with his sides’ performance with ‘four tries and a strong defensive display for the majority.”
Price also praised George Williams who impressed his coach with his short kicking game at the John Smith’s Stadium.
As for Ian Watson, he believed the scoreline flattered the visitors but admitted that his side ‘didn’t ask enough questions’ and ‘wasn’t clinical enough with the ball in hand’.
All in all, a disappointing performance from Ian Watson’s side, but Warrington showed real class throughout their simple victory and will be glad to get back to winning ways after a disappointing loss to Wakefield Trinity last time out.
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