Aussies glad of the extra game (From Warrington Guardian)

Aussies glad of the extra game

WOLVES' new overseas props continued their build-up to the 2004 campaign with an appearance in Lee Penny's Testimonial game on Saturday.

The two signings from Australia were a major draw in the Wolves versus Cambridge University clash at Wilderspool Stadium.

They tackled tenaciously, showed a talent for off-loading and made a number of block-busting runs before choosing to sit out the second half.

Lima said: "It was good to get another run under our belts. I for one struggled with the heavy pitch the previous week against Salford and I felt that I needed more game time to acclimatize myself to the conditions over here and to improve my match fitness.

"Chris felt the same way but I'm sure that we will be firing on all cylinders by the time the season starts."

Lima and Leikvoll were pleased with their performances on Saturday but they admit that the opposition could have been better.

Wolves dominated every facet of the game and in their 58-0 triumph they scored tries via Nick Owen, Matt Clarke, Kevin Picton, three, Phil Berry, Andy Crabtree, Ian Wilkinson, Phil Braddish, Chris Baines, two and Liam McGovern.

Owen, who joined Lima and Leikvoll as the only first team squad members representing Wolves, knocked over five conversions.

Penny was released by the club at the end of last season and did not play on Saturday due to being sick on the morning of the game but he enjoyed the occasion.

Penny, who is currently playing for Vale of Lune Rugby Union Club and hopes to soon tie up a deal with Sale Sharks, said: "I was very emotional at the end of the game.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my 11 years at Warrington and I would like to thank all of the people who made my Testimonial game possible.

"I really enjoyed the day but it would have been nice to have played."

Penny added: "I woke up in the morning and I could not stop being sick. I rang Paul Cullen and he told me to just come down and watch.

"So that is what I did and I will continue to do. I will be playing Rugby Union on Saturdays but I will be able to come and watch Warrington play on Sundays. Nothing will stop me from coming to support the boys."