Why Challenge Cup Final will be 'painful' homework for prop Partington

Leeds take on Salford at a deserted Wembley Stadium this afternoon. Prop Partington admits it will be painful viewing, having been dumped out of the competition at the semi-final stage by the Rhinos.

He hopes watching the occasion will fuel his side’s desire not to fall short in their quest for Grand Final glory this year.

And with both of those sides among their remaining five league opponents, he said: “We’ve got to play those sides, and you want to see how they do in big games – call it homework! I’ll be watching but I won’t be happy about it. It still hurts – that Leeds defeat gutted us all.

“But I think it will stand us in good stead because nobody wants to feel like that again.”

Wigan are scheduled to face the Red Devils in six days, in another behind-closed-doors encounter at St Helens.

Their last match, against Catalans on Thursday, was postponed because of three fresh cases among the Warriors staff which meant the entire squad needed retesting.

Partington, meanwhile, is hoping to learn from recent recruit Brad Singleton as he continues his development.

The academy-produce added: “Brad’s settled in really well, he’s brought a lot of knowledge and I’m learning from him. “He’s already looking like one of the leaders in the group.”

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