Hodgson: It is going to be a big game

Warrington Wolves full-back Brett Hodgson is hoping to deliver a hammer-blow to former coach Nathan Brown’s chances of securing a Carnegie Challenge Cup success in his final season in charge of semi-final opponents Huddersfield Giants when they meet at the City of Salford Stadium on Sunday July 15 (5.30pm).

Hodgson goes up against his former club, with whom he won the Super League Man Of Steel award in 2010, with a coveted place in the Challenge Cup final at stake and the Warrington star who was instrumental in guiding the Exiles to victory over England in the International Origin Series is hungry for more silverware.

“I am really looking forward to the match,” said Hodgson. “It is going to be a big game and both teams know what is at stake so the pressure will be on us all.

“It’s always good to go up against your old clubs but the fact that we are playing Huddersfield has no bearing on my preparation. I have been at Warrington for two years now and as a team we were really disappointed with our Cup campaign last season so this game is an important step for us to get to where we want to be and make amends for that and hopefully regain the trophy.

“Huddersfield haven’t been playing too well of late but they are a side that can definitely play big games and they’ll be very determined to book a place in the final so we are expecting a tough encounter. We’re going into the game with some good form after the match against Catalan so hopefully that bodes well for us.”

Having made the move across the Pennines to join Warrington for the 2011 season, Hodgson, who still lives in Huddersfield, is keen to repay the faith of the Wolves’ fans by securing another journey to the capital.

“We have a great set of supporters that always travel to the away games,” he said. “Salford isn’t too far away from us so we are looking forward to playing in front of a packed stadium and I’m sure it will be a great atmosphere. Hopefully we can secure a place at Wembley and give the fans another Cup final to look forward to.”

Tickets for the Carnegie Challenge Cup semi-final, Huddersfield Giants v Warrington Wolves at the City of Salford Stadium on Sunday July 15 cost from just £18 adult and £9 concession and can be purchased by calling the RFL Ticket office on 0844 856 1113 or visiting www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk

Tickets for the 2012 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday August 25 cost from just £21 and are now on sale. Family tickets giving access to one of British sport’s most historic fixtures to two adults and two children are also available, priced £55 or £79.

To purchase tickets please call the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113 or visit www.carnegiechallengecup.co.uk
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