‘Inspirational’ Burgess key to Warrington Success, says John Kear

“Inspirational” coach Sam Burgess has been key to Warrington Wolves 2024 success, says former Bradford boss John Kear. 

Warrington reached the semi-finals of the Super League after a golden-point drop-goal in extra time, beating St Helens 23-22. 

The Wire finished third in the league this season, a huge improvement on last year’s sixth place under former-coach Daryl Powell, who left the club in the middle of 2023.

Kear, who managed Bradford Bulls from 2018 to 2022, believes Burgess has been the perfect man for the job.

“I think he’s been absolutely first-class,” he said.  

“He’s just what the club needed, to tell you the truth. I know Sam from his early playing days, and he’s always been an inspirational leader.”

Burgess, 35, joined at the beginning of the season and won 12 matches in the league, also finishing runner-up to Wigan Warriors in the Challenge Cup final. 

“He’s such an awesome presence,” Kear added. 

“When he walks into the room, you notice him. It’s an imposing presence.

“That’s what he’s brought to the table at Warrington and I think you can see how the team, and the club’s grown, under his tenure.”

Warrington are set to take on Hull KR in the play-off semi-finals on Friday night, with the chance to reach the Grand Final at Old Trafford on Saturday 12 October.