Wildcats ready to roar

Wildcats looking to bounce back to form and reach Wembley final

Last updated: 24th July 2008

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Kear: Not worried about poor run of form

It's all down to 80 minutes of rugby league, as it is in every round of the Challenge Cup. You lose and you're out - that's what makes it a great competition. You just have to go out there and commit yourselves totally

Wakefield coach John Kear
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John Kear insists Wakefield's recent slump in form means nothing ahead of this Sunday's Carnegie Challenge Cup semi-final.

The Wildcats coach has seen his side suffer four defeats on the spin, hardly ideal preparations for their showdown with Hull FC at the Keepmoat Stadium.

However, when it comes to the magic of the cup Kear has always found a way of making sure the formbook goes out the window.

Back in 1998 the 53-year-old produced one of the biggest upsets of all time, leading Sheffield Eagles to a shock 17-8 win over Wigan at Wembley.

Big day

He also steered Hull to glory three years ago and is hopeful Wakefield can keep alive his dreams of a cup hat-trick now the big day is finally upon them.

"It was a relief getting the Bradford game and all those rounds of Super League out of the way because it is in the back of your mind," Kear said.

"I don't care who you are, when there's a big game like this, it's bound to be sat in the back of your mind.

"History tells you that, when teams have got to the later stages, they've always had a little blip. Only St Helens have disproved that theory this year."

While Wakefield have struggled in recent weeks opponents Hull have managed two wins on the bounce, including a 26-18 result at Belle Vue a fortnight ago.

Kick-off

Last time out they hammered arch rivals Hull KR in the derby, though Kear insists previous results count for nothing once it gets to kick-off time.

"I think that's the best they've played for a long time," admitted Kear. "You can say they've got a bit of form under their belt and you can say we're scratchy.

"But, in all honesty, I couldn't care less because it starts at 3.30 and finishes at 5.10 and that period of time is all that matters.

"It's all down to 80 minutes of rugby league, as it is in every round of the Challenge Cup. You lose and you're out - that's what makes it a great competition. You just have to go out there and commit yourselves totally."