Tony Smith: Warrington boss says Wigan defeat could help them against Hull

Tony Smith led Warrington Wolves to the League Leaders' Shield in 2011

Warrington Wolves boss Tony Smith hopes their loss to Wigan will help them as they look to avenge their Challenge Cup final defeat by Hull FC to win the League Leaders' Shield.

Victory against Wigan could have won the Wire the minor premiership but the Warriors came from behind to win.

"Those sorts of things can make you a little bit more determined," he said.

Hull beat Smith's side at Wembley, but victory for either side will seal the shield when they play each other.

"We would have loved to have got it done last week," Smith told BBC Radio Merseyside. "We were pretty determined before, but hopefully we can make it happen for ourselves this time.

"Whilst it's not the big prize that we're after, it will still be an important one along the way."

A draw at the KCOM Stadium will be enough for Warrington to seal a second League Leaders' Shield, as they edge Hull by a point at the top of the Super League table going into the final round of games.

"I think they've written a script for it this way. We're fighting it out with the Black and Whites again for some silverware," Smith added.

"It would be nice for the tables to turn this time and turn our way. Hopefully we can make that happen."