Wild to Make his 100th Appearance in West Yorkshire Derby
2nd July 2009Giants back rower Stephen Wild will make his 100th appearance on Sunday in a vital West Yorkshire derby at the Galpharm Stadium against Wakefield Wildcats. Ex-Wigan player Wild is both excited and honoured in playing in the famous Claret and Gold colours for the 100th time.
“When I first came here, I didn’t expect to achieve this record and to make 100 appearances at one club is a big achievement and it’s a proud moment.”
“The Challenge Cup Final in 2006 was probably the highlight of my Giants career so far and making the top six when no one expected us to and with the team we had, it was a big achievement when we had a pretty small squad. I think with the squad we’ve got this year and if we keep as many fit bodies as possible, I don’t see why we can’t be up there at the end of the year and do even better. ”
The opponents in Sunday’s encounter will be the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, and Wild knows that with just two points separating the sides that they can expect a tough West Yorkshire derby.
“They are always tough games against Wakefield and they’ve got a few players back and hitting a bit of form and our own form hasn’t been too clever. We know we are getting to that part of the season where we’ve got to pick up our form to stay within the top three or four.”
Head Coach Nathan Brown, was quick to lead the tributes of Wild and the contributions he makes to the side:
“Wildy is a really hard worker, he has got a high defensive rate and is a really efficient and outstanding defensive player. When given an opportunity he has the speed and awareness to get over the line. He’s now got over his long term injury niggles and he is starting to get back to playing the footy that people have known him to play. He does a lot of tidying up that goes unnoticed by everyone but his teammates and coaching staff. Playing on the edge, either in the back-row or the centre doesn’t really bother him, he’s at home in both positions.”
With Primary School Children going free a family of four can watch the game from just £33 when pre-purchasing their ticket prior to matchday. Season Ticket holders are also reminded that they can utilise their Bring a Buddy vouchers which allow adult entry for just £10.
The Galpharm Stadium is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12 midday and the Ticket Hotline is 0870 44 44 552