AN unlucky break for Brian Carney will earn 21-year-old Chris Riley a spot in Warrington’s Carnegie Challenge Cup semi-final side.
Riley’s 15-match appearance run was ended when he was dropped for last Saturday’s Super League match at Leeds but he was handed back his spot in place of Irishman Carney, who sustained a broken arm against the Rhinos.
“Chris was probably a bit unlucky to miss out last week,” said Wolves coach Tony Smith. “He gets an opportunity this week through Brian’s disappointment. That’s how rugby league works sometimes.
“Chris handled it professionally last week. He’s ready to go and ready to do his best this week.”
Riley, who began the season at full-back, also received the backing of Warrington captain Adrian Morley, who said: “I thought Chris was pretty unlucky to get stood down for the last game but three wingers into two doesn’t go.
“Another window opens for him and I am sure he will take it with both hands.”
Smith will make at least one other change to the side that lost 24-22 to Leeds, with centre Matt King returning from a hamstring injury to offset the loss of utility back Simon Grix, who is ruled out with a dislocated shoulder.
Smith is set to switch Lee Briers to stand-off, with Michael Monaghan reverting from hooker to scrum-half.
Wigan coach Brian Noble has no doubt that ex-Warriors winger Carney is a major loss for his opponents.
“Brian Carney has great leadership credentials,” said Noble. “He has got good speed.”
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