WOLVES head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith says it is an honour that his team still have a shot at winning the Challenge Cup.

Four Super League clubs have already been sent packing in this year’s competition, with at least another two set for a round five exit.

Warrington’s next step on the road to Wembley takes them to Featherstone on Sunday, kick off 1.30pm, for a potentially tricky tie against one of the Cooperative Championship’s front-runners.

Smith admits there is a certain excitement and allure to playing in the Challenge Cup and says a Wembley win would rank up there with victory in the Super League Grand Final.

He said: “Ultimately, they both would be very special things, winning a premiership or winning the Challenge Cup.

“I imagine they’d go down in anyone’s memory banks as very special times and privileged times.

“I don’t know if you can put a worth on it, which would be better or worse, but there certainly is a romance about the cup.

“The fact that it’s do or die and you have to do all the way through it to win it makes it exciting and there’s a certain tradition with the Challenge Cup that isn’t quite there with the other trophy. But I think they’re both very special.

“It’s so final, each of these games.

“There are always surprises, twists and turns and there are a lot of things that make it exciting so it’s an honour to still be part of it and we’re looking forward to performing in it.”

Smith has also reiterated the importance Wolves fans will play in helping the team reach the next round.

A strong travelling contingent is expected to make the journey to West Yorkshire, mainly thanks to the offer of discounted coach travel made by the club, and Smith expects them to provide his troops a welcome boost.

He said: “The fans will play a big role, they have been terrific so far. They get behind our team and make a difference.

“Often when we go away it seems like a home game and it’s likely to be that way again.

“It’s a big occasion for Featherstone but it’s a big occasion for us as well.”