WARRINGTON Wolves have been placed as third favourites to lift the Challenge Cup ahead of their semi-final clash with Hull KR on Saturday.

However, Betfred are sticking to an industry best price of 11/4 on Tony Smith's side lifting the cup.

That’s despite some substantial bets on Wolves making it four Wembley triumphs since the turn of the century.

Warrington - the home of Betfred’s headquarters - play outsiders Hull KR (6/1) in the semi-finals on Saturday after Super League’s top two Leeds and St Helens go head-to-head in their semi this Friday night.

Betfred spokesman Peter Spencer said: “Leeds are the favourites to be outright winners at 7/4 with Saints 9/4. They are the stand out teams this season and these two would have made a brilliant final rather than a last-four clash.

“However Warrington supporters are taking us on and if they do go all the way and lift the cup at the sport’s Wembley showpiece on August 29 our losses will be well over £50,000.

"There have been several bets of £100 and some fans waging £500. The Wolves are our local team and there is a great deal of confidence locally that their name is again on the cup.”