WOLVES head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith is full of praise for the club’s under 19s side, who lost the Academy Grand Final to Wigan but topped the league after losing only twice.

“It’s been a terrific season for them and it’s the first time in our club’s history we’ve won the league leaders’ trophy,” he said.

“There was some disappointment about the final match, but it’s great to make the Grand Final and make a very competent account of themselves.

"They left themselves a bit much to do being 18-0 down, the first half wasn’t as strong as they needed it to be.

“But they certainly put themselves in a position where they could have won the game by the end of it, which shows the spirit within the club and within each of our teams. All of the players and staff should be very proud of themselves.”