Warrington Wolves star speaks out after “disappointing” defeat

Warrington Wolves lost 28-12 to Leigh Leopards on Saturday night in a disappointing defeat in Joe Philbin’s testimonial.

Leigh took a 12-0 lead thanks to tries from Josh Charnley and Zak Hardaker. Then,

George Williams put in a dangerous kick for Lachlan Fitzgibbon to chase on the half-hour mark but Leigh cleared the ball.

The Wire then struck back two minutes later as James Harrison barged his way over the line from close range.

Warrington almost added a second on 35 minutes as Jake Thewlis found room following some slick passes down to the left wing but the youngster was forced into touch as he attempted to cross in the corner.

A brilliant try-saver from Josh Thewlis on Charnley down the left wing denied Leigh a try on the stroke of half-time. The visitors led by six at the break.

Warrington were alert at the start of the second half to keep the Leopards out as brilliant defence forced Umyla Hanley into touch down the right wing.

In the first 20 minutes of the second half, Matt Moylan grabbed a try on debut before setting up Hanley scored at the second time of asking.

Sergent got a try back for Warrington before Tom Nisbet wrapped the scoring up for Leigh.

Joe Philbin speaks out after Warrington Wolves defeat

Speaking on the club’s social media account, Joe Philbin reflected on his testimonial and the defeat to Leigh.

The prop promised the team would learn the lessons from the defeat to make sure they start the season in better shape.

He said: “Thank you all for coming out tonight, it was a great crowd and really loud. It was just good to have the Halliwell Jones Stadium rocking.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t get the win but we have learnt some good lessons and we will in time by the time we get back in Super League against Catalans Dragons. Let’s go the Wire.”

This comes as Head Coach Sam Burgess said he was “disappointed” by the defeat to the Leopards and implied that they had a lot of work to do.