Wigan have to improve to become contenders, says Partington

Oliver Partington says Wigan need to improve if they are to reach the Super League Grand Final.

The Warriors were denied a spot at Wembley after a humbling defeat to Leeds in the Challenge Cup semi-final earlier this month, with all focus now on league glory for the Cherry and Whites.

Speaking on their chances of making the Grand Final, which will now be staged at Hull’s KCOM Stadium, Partington said: “I think we have a bit of a way to go before we can be contenders.

“I do not think we have been far off. We had that blip against Hull KR then the Challenge Cup semi-final against Leeds Rhinos.

“That really hurt us but I think it is going to stand us in good stead towards the back end of the year as no one wants to feel like that again.

“We are definitely building for something good and hopefully, we will be there in the Final.”

Wigan bounced back from their cup exit by beating Warrington 18-14, before last week’s game against Catalans was postponed.

They now take on Salford this evening and despite head coach Adrian Lam rotating his squad, Partington is determined to keep his place in the side.

He added: “The competition for places is massive. I said that at the start of the year when we brought in George Burgess and Mitch Clark, and now Brad Singleton.

“It is now helping me develop, as well as the other lads, as we want to keep that spot.

“Adrian Lam is saying to us every week they are coming back and you need to perform to keep that shirt. If you do not, someone else will be wearing it.”