EXCITEMENT is growing as Warrington Wolves prepare to bring the Challenge Cup home.

And nobody is feeling more proud than club chairman Stuart Middleton, who led the team out at Wembley on Saturday and now can’t wait for the homecoming on Monday.

“It was my third time leading the team out and I was hoping it would be third time lucky,” said Stuart.

“It’s my proudest moment. I can’t really sum it up, I’m just so proud.

Warrington Guardian:

Very proud Wire chairman Stuart Middleton. Picture: Mike Boden

“I thought we went there as underdogs and I thought it would be tough.

“In the past couple of years I felt excitement before leading the team out, and this time I was apprehensive and thinking ‘Please, make it third time lucky.’ “The apprehension was because Saints have been great this season. That’s why they’re top of the league, way above us, and with Blake Austin pulling out, and the past five games had been disappointing for us, so we came as underdogs and I thought it’s going to be a miracle if we can win.

“But all credit to the coaches and players. They had a plan and they dug in.

“They were very confident the night before when I spoke to them and I thought – hmm, this is interesting.

“It just goes to show what a great team of guys we’ve got.

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“They worked so hard, stuck to the game plan and there was some great coaching from Steve Price.

“So, from the board and Simon Moran and myself, who put a lot of time in and our money as well, to get to win a final like this it makes it all worthwhile.

“I’m a Warrington lad, to walk the team out, meet Prince Harry, and then beat Saints in the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley, it doesn’t get better than that.

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“I can’t wait for Monday. It’s a dream for me as a lifelong fan and I can’t wait to bring the cup back to Warrington.

“Get out on the streets and welcome us back. Rejoice and enjoy the moment. And I promise you there is a lot more to come from this club.”