Warriors will be a massive hurdle (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Warriors will be a massive hurdle

2:00pm Thursday 20th September 2007 in Sport By Jamie Langley

Jamie Langley column

It looks like I got it wrong last week.

I had Wigan to miss out on the play-offs and Warrington to claim sixth. Well they didn't and it just so happens we're playing the Warriors tomorrow night.

They got a great victory over Saints to book that play-off spot and it's now building up to be a great match at Odsal.

I think Wigan will be a massive hurdle. They are playing really well, have loads of experience, lots of big-name players and a big-name coach to match.

We're all revved up though. It's play-off time and there's no excuses for us. You either perform of someone will be asking you questions. A Grand Final spot is at stake and there's no room for error.

We're confident going into this and ready for the challenge. There's certainly a buzz around the place and everyone gets excited at this time of the season. The intensity levels rise in training and it's all to play for.

I am a fan of the play-offs and I think they're great for the competition. However, I would like to see the side that finishes top get more recognition.

I know they get home advantage and a week off but it doesn't seem enough after 27 rounds of endeavour. There's no way around it though - the Grand Final is all that matters now.

It might look like we've got a new signing tomorrow but it's really Matt Cook.

Fans might not recognise him. We certainly didn't. He's had the hard word put on him by the coach and, after much soul-searching and deliberation, taken the plunge - Cooky's had his hair cut!

It's been over a year since he last had it lopped off. Some players will do anything to get in the side when it comes to play-off time.

• This is Andy Lynch's own personal input and nothing to do with me.
• He's had a sneak preview of the Bulls 2008 calendar and apparently Joe Vagana's had about four inches airbrushed off his midriff. I don't believe a word of it.