Shaun Wane has promised his Wigan Warriors will respect Championship side Leigh Centurions ahead of their Tetley’s Challenge Cup derby at the DW Stadium.
The Centurions leaked 60 points in their league tie with Halifax in their last outing and have never progressed past Wigan in the 116-year history of the cup.
But Wane expects Leigh to produce a much more robust performance against Wigan, just like they did in the quarter final of 2002 which the Warriors edged 16-30.
“It’s a game and we prepare. It doesn’t matter to us if it’s a Challenge Cup semi-final or a Super League game,” said Wane.
“We will prepare and show the same respect for Leigh as we would Warrington or St Helens.
“I watched their game at Halifax but I’m expecting a much better performance.”
Leigh boast a number of players who have served time at Wigan, including Bob Beswick, Martin Aspinwall, Thomas Coyle and Warriors star Iain Thornley’s brother, Andy.
Local derby spice will motivate Leigh according to Wane and the ex-Wigan prop, who lifted the Challenge Cup in 1988 is also an admirer of Leigh coach, Paul Rowley.
“I know a lot of their players and I know Paul Rowely will have them ready to play,” said Wane.
“They will come here and be the most enthusiastic team that has been to the DW Stadium for a period of time.
“You can tell they are well coached and they will give us their best performance.”
Wigan are favourites to lift the trophy at Wembley in August and will desperately be looking to avoid of a repeat of last season when they crashed out at the semi-final sage against Leeds Rhinos.
But Wane is taking no chances in this year’s campaign and has only included James Greenwood and George Williams in his 19-man squad who have no Super League experience.
“These are two clubs which have a great history in the game,” Wane added.
“They dislike us and that is good, it will add a bit to the atmosphere of a special game.”
Image courtesy of Super League TV, via YouTube, with thanks
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