A FANTASTIC travelling support filled the away end, providing a great atmosphere, a Grand Final berth at stake meant our trip to Wigan was even more epic than normal.

It was difficult to predict what would happen, would Wigan be well-rested or rusty? Would Wire be battle-hardened or exhausted?

Wigan asserted themselves early looking to get off to a trademark fast start, like a heavyweight champion seeking an early knock out against their dangerous challenger.

They didn't just throw the sink at Wire they chucked the whole kitchen. Wire produced a herculean effort in defense, their best this season.

Wave after wave of Wigan attacks came on the Wire line, but Warrington were more successful than Canute at holding back the tide.

With five minutes to go before half time they had done incredibly well to be just eight nil behind, then came one of those tries at first glance you thought can't be allowed, then when you watched the replay you couldn't see a reason to not allow it, and somehow Wire were within four at the break.

Warrington came out after half time looking energised, and a more evenly balanced and even more thrilling half ensued.

Wigan ignored one of the oldest pieces of Rugby League advice, allowing the ball to bounce, O'Brien did brilliantly to gather his own high kick to score and Wire were in front.

Before long though the scores were locked at 12 points all and the game was on a knife edge.

Nervy drop goal attempts intermingled with awesome defensive efforts to block or put off the kicks, meant that it looked like it would be the first Super League play-off game to go to extra time.

Then Wigan and in particular O'Loughlin found some much needed composure just in time to win the game with a try and Wire fans had to witness a new way for their dream to be cruelly shattered.

It was clear to see that Wire had given absolutely everything pursuing that dream, unfortunately the more effort that goes into chasing a dream the more horrific the nightmare when the dream dies. Unlike the last three years, though, I am left with a feeling of Wire having more chance to win it the following season.

Sixty years is a nice round number, Wire will be champions in 2015, no pressure boys, but I hate being wrong!