SAM BURGESS knows injury-hit Warrington Wolves have to be on their game if they are to overcome Leigh Leopards at a “magnificent” Hill Dickinson Stadium tomorrow.
High-flying Wire head into the Magic Weekend derby in second place, but face a tough task against a resurgent Leigh who appear much stronger than their 42-6 (Super League) and 24-10 (Challenge Cup) defeats by Burgess’ side in consecutive weekends in April.
“We had them earlier in the year,” explained the coach. “They had a number of injuries, but they’ve got a full bill of health now, so I guess it’s kind of roles reversed.
“Their form has been building, Lammy [Adrian Lam] has been open about that as well, he’s liking the way they’re playing.
“You have to say they’ve been consistent over the last eight weeks. You see that typical style that they play, they’re physical, trying to control the territory of the game, and they’ve got some dangerous shapes and some dangerous attacking weapons as well.
“They’ve got a great, balanced, side. Umyla Hanley obviously plays with great energy and means a lot to the group, so he’s always big for them, and they’ve got a bit of strike. We’ll be on our game.”
Warrington lost Jordan Crowther, Arron Lindop and Josh Thewlis to injury during last week’s win over Catalans Dragons, but Burgess insists he won’t be using injuries as an excuse if his side produce a below-par performance.
“There’s pressure on us,” he stressed. “We want to play our game.
“We never really use the injuries as an excuse, we won’t be using it this week as an excuse. We’ll be trying to play our game.
“The pressure’s on and it’s an important game, it’s a great occasion, and hopefully we get our game in order and do our jobs.”
A healthy crowd is expected at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, which will host Magic Weekend for the first time.
And having been a part of the BBC’s punditry team for England’s Ashes clash with Australia – the only other Rugby League event that has been held there – Burgess knows just what a rousing atmosphere can be created.
“I think it’s a magnificent stadium, it really is a magnificent place to host sporting games,” he enthused.
“Obviously for Rugby League, it’s fantastic for the game, it’s quite spectacular as you walk in or drive in. For all the fans who have paid to come and have travelled to enjoy their weekend, I’m sure they’ll stick around for the day. It’s a great venue.
“I think all the players are excited, my players are, and I’m sure most of us are. I think a lot of supporters are as well.
“It’s quite spectacular when it’s full, so hopefully it is for the games.”