Mathers aiming to leave on a high

Warrington full-back Richard Mathers is hoping to end his time with the Wolves on a high by helping the Carnegie Challenge Cup holders retain the trophy for the first time in their history.

The Wolves were Wembley winners last year with a 25-16 victory over Huddersfield Giants and are just 80 minutes away from a second final appearance with Catalans Dragons standing in their way.

The two sides will meet in an intriguing semi-final at Stobart Stadium, Widnes on Sunday August 8.

“It is massively important to finish the season on a high. I will leave Warrington with some great memories,” said Mathers, who also believes the Wolves have what it takes to complete an Engage Super League and Carnegie Challenge Cup double in 2010.

“I care about the players and everyone else at the club so it means a lot to finish the season positively, not for me personally, but for the whole team.

“The Challenge Cup is a prestigious competition that all teams strive to win. We had a taste of success last year and along with the hunger and desire of achieving it again, we also have the pride of being the defending champions.

“To do the double this year is a big ask. The two competitions are completely different and need to be approached separately. We will do all that we can but our main objective is to consistently perform well.”

Despite the Catalans’ currently sitting bottom of the Super League table, Mathers insists the Wolves will not underestimate their opponents.

“It’s all about performing well on the day and how you apply yourself in a game,” he said.

“We will not focus on previous results because the Super League is a totally different contest. The Carnegie Challenge Cup semi is a big game, but we play all of our games with that motive.

“Catalans Dragons are a good side and anything can happen on the day so we won’t be taking them lightly.”