Mike Parsons is marking 30 years as sports editor of Warrington Guardian. In a series of subscriber-only features during the 2023 season, we're calling on him for thoughts, opinions and memories relevant to the forthcoming match. Here, the discussion centres around The Wire tackling Huddersfield Giants as we Ask Mike...
Q: Warrington's best win against Huddersfield?
A: The Challenge Cup fifth round clash at the John Smith's Stadium, then known as the Galpharm Stadium, in 2010. It was billed as an occasion for Giants to gain revenge over The Wire for the previous year's cup final at Wembley. But only one side showed up, everything The Wire did turned to gold in a wonderful exhibition of rugby league. Tony Smith's men ran out 60-4 winners.
Q: Most heartbreaking moment against Huddersfield?
A: Probably seeing Leroy Cudjoe intercept Richie Mathers' pass and run 90 metres in the 78th minute to seal Huddersfield's progress in the 2010 Super League play-offs at the expense of Warrington. Replays showing coach Nathan Brown waving on his star centre is the stuff of nightmares.
Q: Your favourite match between Warrington and Huddersfield?
A: There's been a few - the 47-0 win in the play-offs in 2011, the one in the snow in 2013, but it has to be none other than the Challenge Cup Final win at Wembley in 2009. The wait had been so long....
Q: If you could pick any Huddersfield player from history who you would have liked to have seen in primrose and blue, who would it be?
A: I'd go with Robbie Hunter-Paul. He was unplayable at times at his peak while at Bradford Bulls and always a huge threat when he faced The Wire.
Q: Which Huddersfield player did you hate seeing Warrington come up against the most?
A: It has to be Danny Brough. He used to lose his rag when things weren't going his way and that annoyed me. I can see his face now looking like he's chewing a wasp! But he was such a prodigious talent who seemed to have the knack of ruining Wolves sides year after year with his smart kicking game and brilliant organisational ability.
Q: Is there a player you wish Wire had kept rather than him moving to Huddersfield?
A: Yes, in terms of what he still had to offer on the field, ex-Wire skipper Chris Hill. He showed last year he still has a lot to offer even as a veteran and did the country proud with his England recall for the Rugby League World Cup.
Q: You can sign one player from the existing Giants squad for Warrington. Who will it be?
A: Kevin Naiqama. The Fijian was sensational in his time with St Helens and he is a joy to watch. At full pace he looks like he's gliding over the dance floor with his tremendous footwork.
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