STAND-IN skipper Kurt Gidley says a text from a former teammate gave him extra motivation for Saturday’s World Club Series victory over Brisbane Broncos.

In the absence of regular captain Chris Hill with injury, the Australian led the side to a famous 27-18 victory over Wayne Bennett’s side.

After the game, Gidley said he was “so proud” of his teammates’ efforts.

“Danny Buderus sent me a text during the week telling me to really buy into the whole “Super League v NRL” concept and he was spot on,” he said.

“I was really highly motivated for the game, I wanted to do well as a team and a club.

“I’m proud in general, not just as a captain. I’m proud of what my teammates did tonight for the club and for Super League.

“Defensively we worked really hard in the first half and our kicking game was great. We were tough and resilient, I’m so proud of my club.”

Gidley has spent most of his time at The Halliwell Jones Stadium playing in the halves but switched to full-back against the Broncos.

The 34-year-old spent a lot of his career with Newcastle Knights at full-back and gave an assured performance that his coach Tony Smith called “outstanding.”

“I’ve always enjoyed full-back, throughout my career I’ve rotated between full-back and the halves,” Gidley said.

“It was fun, it’s a different role and one the coach asked me to do during the week and I was happy to.

“I enjoyed it for a few different reasons but mostly because of the win.”

A highly-charged game spilled over on occasion, with two mass brawls breaking out, but Gidley says that reflected both sides’ desire to win.

He also praised the fans for the impact they had in getting The Wire over the line.

“It got a bit heated at times but I guess that’s the competitiveness coming out in all of us,” he said.

“Both teams wanted to win the game, it didn’t spill over too much but it showed how competitive both sides were.

“I think the crowds over here are better than back home. I enjoy the songs and chants they come up with and the atmosphere they create.”