Warrington Wolves coach Tony Smith heaped praise on winger Tom Lineham after he came in from the cold to produce a pivotal performance in their victory against Hull on Friday, which helped secured the League Leader’s Shield.
The Wolves won 23-6 at Hull to finish top of the league for the first time in five years – but all the talk post-match was about ex-Hull winger Lineham.
He had not played since July for the Wolves’ first team, and Smith admitted the way he conducted himself during his exile from the team was a credit to himself and the club.
“It was a great response from Tommy Lineham,” Smith said. “When he wasn’t getting picked, instead of sulking, he did something about it.
“He worked harder each and every week, coming in early and doing all the right things.
“He came up with some enormous plays, including a couple of trysaving tackles, I thought he was terrific.”
Smith also singled out captain Chris Hill for praise – and said he’s mystified as to why he hasn’t made the shortlist for Man of Steel.
“Dec and Stef (Ratchford) both managed the game very well but, if you are looking for star players, Chris Hill was outstanding,” Smith added.
“How he’s not on the Man of Steel short-list is beyond me. He does it week in, week out.”
