STEVE Price has challenged his Wire players to go out and grab Super League’s second spot in the Super 8s – starting by beating Catalans Dragons tomorrow.
The game at The Halliwell Jones Stadium now has the extra dynamic of being between the two sides that will contest the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on August 25.
Wolves and Catalans beat Leeds Rhinos and St Helens respectively in Sunday’s semi-final double header in Bolton.
Attention now turns back to Super League and with The Wire sat in fourth – two points behind Castleford in third and three behind second-placed Wigan.
For any players who perhaps naturally will cast their minds forward to walking out at the national stadium, Price says the best way to earn a spot in his team for Wembley is to help Wolves hunt down their rivals.
“We still have a lot to play for. We’re playing for two trophies,” he told the Guardian.
“We’re in the four at the moment, but we’re trying to push for that top two.
“Our challenge is Friday night against a team that’s playing some really, really good football.
“I think St Helens have the League Leaders’ Shield now, but it’s a perfect opportunity for us to go out and grab second.
“We’ve had a number of players who have just been missing out on our 17 that would fit in at any Super League club.
“There’s pressure on all positions. I’m sure the guys will be looking for strong performances individually and as a collective as well.
“We’ve got back into the grind, and it’s on to the next one.”
Stefan Ratchford, Mike Cooper and Ben Murdoch-Masila will be rested for the Dragons’ visit, with Bodene Thompson confirmed to be making his Warrington debut.
READ: Wire and Catalans make several changes for Super 8s clash
He looks set to replace Murdoch-Masila on the bench, with Mitch Brown and Sitaleki Akauola likely to come in at full-back and prop respectively.
Morgan Smith also comes into the 19-man squad, meaning Daryl Clark could also be rested if needed.
Price says his side will have to “get dirty” if they are to get their Super 8s campaign off to the ideal start tomorrow.
“With the senior players we have, they set really high standards and this won’t be any different on Friday night,” he said.
“It’s important that we keep this momentum going and that we’re able to sustain our rhythm.
“They have a big forward pack and they like to get dirty.
“Their back five are doing a good job at the back of the field also. We’re going to have to be really sound in all areas.”
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