Warrington Wolves “had to win the game three times” as boss assesses York Knights victory

Warrington Wolves boss Sam Burgess was left impressed with his side’s resilience, and believes the win will serve as a “reality check” to his squad.

Wire defeated York Knights 38-30 in a thrilling affair, as 12 tries were scored across both teams, making it the highest points scoring game in the competition so far.

Burgess’ men scored seven of those tries, but their win could have been more convincing if they hadn’t switched off for brief periods, allowing York to get themselves back into the game on more than one occasion.

Warrington took at 16-0 lead after 15 minutes before York crawled back to make it 18-16. In the second half, they went ahead by 32-18, but allowed the Knights a chance at a comeback, as they made it 32-30.

The Warrington boss gave his thoughts on the contest to Sky Sports after the game, and revealed he pleased with the majority of his sides’ performance, though it’s that concentration that Burgess is looking to improve on going forward.

“It was enjoyable to watch at times,” said the Wolves coach. “I thought we started the game really well and we came here with a great attitude because I think York are a great side as we can see tonight.

“They can score some great points. I’m disappointed in some areas of our game but in the first half I thought we were actually really good apart from about four or five minutes.”

York were allowed back into the game again in the second half, and whilst some may see that as a concern, Burgess wants to use that as motivation for improvement going forward.

The boss believes that this game will prove to be a “reality check” for his side, as they look to keep grounded and not get too carried away with their early season success.

He said: “[It’s] not a concern me at all. I think it’s great actually.

“It gives me something to work on still. It gives the group something to get better at. I do like the fact that we probably had to win the game three times.

“…We got in front, let them back in, in front again and then let them back in so there’s a lot to like.

“I don’t like the points [conceded] if I’m being honest but this time of the year it’s important to pick up the two points and come away healthy.”

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