OVER the next three weeks, we may know a lot more about what Warrington Wolves are playing for in 2024.

The Wire are firmly in the conversation at the right end of the Super League table and upon the conclusion of Round 17, they sit second in the table.

The first three of the 10 regular-season games that remain represents arguably their toughest run of fixtures of the campaign so far – and one that could well define their season.

First up on Friday is the short trip to the Totally Wicked Stadium, where Sam Burgess’ side will look to beat neighbours St Helens in a Super League fixture for the first time in more than three years.

However, they have already beaten Saints on their own patch this year thanks to the memorable 31-8 thrashing they dished out in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals, while they returned to St Helens for the semis to hammer Huddersfield Giants 46-10.

Another side they have not beaten in a long time is Wigan Warriors, whom Warrington will travel to in Round 19 on Friday, July 26.

The Warriors have extended their winning run in matches against The Wire to seven this season by winning the Challenge Cup Final between the sides at Wembley a week after edging home by a point in a Super League clash between two much-changed sides.

With Matt Peet’s side unbeaten at home and blazing a trail towards the League Leaders’ Shield, it will be a tough task facing Burgess’ boys.

The final game of this significant run sees Hull KR – the team currently alongside Warrington in second place – visit The Halliwell Jones Stadium for the second time this year on Friday, August 3.

They were beaten 20-8 back in May and indeed, Warrington are the only side Rovers head coach Willie Peters is yet to beat during his time in charge at Craven Park.

How strong will Wire’s platform be?

Of course, what they will not want to do is emerge from this run empty-handed but whatever they can take from it can act as a platform for an end to the season which, with due respect to their opposition, looks inviting for a side competing at the top.

Of the seven matches that will remain after this three-game burst, only one is against a side currently in the top six – Saints’ visit to The Halliwell Jones Stadium on September 6.

They will also have two matches against bottom side London Broncos, the Magic Weekend clash with Leeds Rhinos and trips to Castleford Tigers, Leigh Leopards and Huddersfield Giants.