NOT many people would have earmarked Wakefield for a place in the Super 8s and a Challenge Cup semi-final when the season began back in February.

They looked set for another survival scrap when coach Brian Smith resigned just three games into the season, but the Wildcats have not looked back since then.

Since Chris Chester was appointed in Smith’s place, the Belle Vue side have transformed their season and will now mix it with Super League’s big boys in the closing throes of the season.

Chester masterminded The Wire’s downfall in the Challenge Cup semi-finals last season as Hull KR coach and the parallels with Saturday’s game are frighteningly similar.

They have their injury worries, with second rowers Jonny Molloy and Matty Ashurst definitely ruled out with pectoral and jaw injuries respectively.

Despite this, however, their threats are ample and potent. Jacob Miller and Liam Finn have formed an almost telepathic understanding in the halves.

Add full-back Max Jowitt and hooker Scott Moore to that and they have a consistent and dangerous spine to threaten any side.

Ben Jones-Bishop is always dangerous from the wing, while Tonga international prop David Fifita has quickly elevated himself to cult hero status among the Wildcats faithful for his bludgeoning performances.