It has been confirmed that Warrington Wolves will host Leigh Leopards in the pre-season with the match serving as a testimonial game for Wire forward Joe Philbin.
The game will serve as one of the first chances for fans to get to see the likes of new overseas signings Rodrick Tai for the Wolves and Matt Moylan for the Leopards.
Philbin is celebrating his testimonial after ten years of service and the 29-year-old will be honoured at the game which is slated for February 3rd, just under two weeks before Super League gets underway.
Warrington confirmed the clash with a short video posted on their X profile featuring Philbin, whilst the Leopards released a statement of their own via the club website.
The statement read: “Leigh Leopards can confirm that they will be taking on Warrington Wolves at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Saturday 3rd February 2024 at 5:30pm in a pre-season Warm Up Game.
“This fixture will give Leopards’ fans the opportunity to watch the squad in action ahead of the start of the 2024 Betfred Super League season and will also act as the testimonial for Warrington Wolves forward Joe Philbin.
“Philbin, 29, has made 196 appearances for the Wolves since his debut in 2014 and has also represented Great Britain, England, Ireland, and England Knights.”
Leigh Leopards Head of Rugby Chris Chester said: “We are pleased to have been invited to take part in Joe’s testimonial game.
“Joe has been a good servant to Warrington over the last ten years. To have played ten years at the highest level, especially doing it all at one club, is a rarity in the modern game. Joe can be proud of his achievements, and we wish him well in his testimonial year.
“We are pleased that Leigh Leopards are going to be involved in marking Joe’s testimonial in this manner and are looking forward to the game, which will form a key part of our preparations ahead of our Round One game against Huddersfield Giants on Friday 16 February.”
As for Warrington’s announcement, it featured Philbin in training gear sending the message to the team’s supporters.
Philbin said: “Yes Wire fans, I’m delighted to be able to announce that my testimonial game is going to be Saturday 3rd of February, 5:30 kick-off at the HJ against our local rivals the Leigh Leopards. It will be great to see you all down there supporting Sam and the boys. Let’s go!”
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