WITH a new contract in his back pocket, Matt Davis can now look forward to a bit of stability off the pitch at least.
Having joined The Wire from London Broncos ahead of last year, 2019 was a settling-in process while 2020 was a never-ending challenge.
Sitting inactive for months on end due to the Covid-19 pandemic was not an ideal scenario for someone trying to earn an extended deal, but the 23-year-old made the best of it when Super League returned.
A few energetic and industrious performances later and his future was sorted. Now, he must find new incentives.
"It’s a weight off the mind," he said.
"I’d played a few games at the start of the season which I thought I’d gone well, but going through lockdown nobody was making a move.
"I did have a lot of interest from other clubs but nothing certain.
"Warrington came in with a couple of offers and it put my mind at ease.
"I haven’t had too much stability in my life over the past couple of years, with being down in London then moving up here.
"I never really knew what was round the corner, so to sign for two years is something I’m really happy about.
"I only played the one game before I got offered the contract – against Wakefield. It was my first game back after lockdown and I knew I was playing for something.
"I ripped in, had a really good go and I think I reminded people what I could do as it’s easy to forget after such a long time out.
"Not getting picked was frustrating but when I got my chance, I feel like I took it."
Davis certainly became more of a regular in Steve Price's team as last season went on as finally, he looked to nail down a consistent spot in the 17.
His two years in primrose and blue have seen him make 31 appearances mostly from the bench, but now he is looking to take that next step.
"The boys knew what I could do but I had to set about gaining that trust from upstairs and showing Pricey my worth," he said.
"I still believe I can play a much bigger role in the team. I’ve had some really good games this season and have come off the bench to make a difference.
"I’ve found a bit of a niche off the bench – I’d like to kick on and lock down that position in the starting team but I understand there’s some good players in front of me.
"I find that when I play longer minutes, I play 10 times better. My carries feel stronger as well."
Off the field, Davis has moved in with teammate Toby King and while lockdown brings its challenges for anyone sharing the same space, the pair seem to be making the best of it.
"We keep ourselves entertained," he said.
"We’ve biked over to Newton to play a bit of tennis with Tom Lineham a few times.
"He’s the champion at that I must admit. I’d back myself as second but Toby is the worst by far."
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