WARRINGTON WOLVES’ youngsters enjoyed an “unbelievable experience” on their three-week tour of Australia.

The Wire academy side played matches against youngsters at Penrith Panthers and Gold Coast Titans, either side of facing a New South Wales representative team.

They began the tour with a very impressive 50-10 win over Penrith, scoring nine tries including two each from wingers Alex Wilson and Jack Fallon.

Halfback Ewan Irwin then inspired a late comeback from eight points down to draw 30-30 with New South Wales.

Warrington, who won the Academy Grand Final against Leeds Rhinos in September and are coached by Daniel Hill, suffered their sole defeat in the final game, going down 18-6 to Gold Coast.

While down under, the team also held opposed sessions with Canterbury Bulldogs and Dolphins youngsters, and had a training session led by NRL Immortal and former Wire player Andrew Johns.

Warrington’s head of youth, Ryan O’Brien, reflected: “The tour has been an unbelievable experience for our players and staff.

“We have come up against some of the best players in the world for their age, trained in some unbelievable facilities, and gained invaluable insight into how a number of NRL clubs operate. 

“Most importantly, our players have learnt life lessons, strengthened friendships, and made memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. 

“I cannot thank our staff, players’ parents, pathway sponsors, and contacts over in Australia enough for helping to make this happen.”

Warrington made a similar trip in 2023 with nine of those academy players going on to appear in Super League including regular Arron Lindop.

Of this year’s cohort, Irwin and James Duffy have already made senior debuts for the club.