Warrington Wolves full back Richie Mathers believes defence is key to the club's future success (From This Is Cheshire)

Warrington Wolves full back Richie Mathers believes defence is key to the club's future success

11:04pm Wednesday 8th July 2009 in

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RICHIE Mathers believes Wolves’ confidence in their ability to shut teams out will help take them to the next level.

It has become a sporting cliché but Mathers is a firm believer that defence wins games.

Warrington’s solid rearguard was one of the major positives to come from Saturday’s 22-6 win against Celtic Crusaders – it took the Welsh side a full 77 minutes before they could breach the visitors’ line.

And Mathers says a newfound belief in their defensive systems and structure has been the main factor in Wolves’ impressive run of 10 wins in 12 games.

“Our defence was solid, as it has been for a while,” he said.

“The systems are in place and the structure and plays are good, so that was really pleasing.

“But our attack was a bit all over the shop in the first half. In the second half it came together a bit more and we began to support each other better.

“If you don’t rack up the points against Celtic, people ask why but we did a good professional job down there.

“We want to base ourselves first and foremost on good defence because I would like to think we can attack with the best of them.

“The attacking prowess we have got is great but sometimes that doesn’t come off.

“We need to have confidence that if something doesn’t come off, we can defend another set of six and then have another go.

“If we make an error so what? We will defend it, get the ball back and go again.”

The 25-year-old full back has played a key role in Wolves’ improved defence under boss Tony Smith.

As last man, Mathers provides a reassuring and vocal presence, helping to organise his teammates and close gaps in the line.

It is a role the former Leeds and Wigan man relishes.

He said: “It’s both something that Tony has asked me to do and something that was already a part of my game.

“I’m in probably the best position defence-wise to count heads and try and get our numbers right against their numbers.

“For the lads in front of me, it’s a tough job and I try to take pressure off them by getting them organised in defence and pumping them up when it needs to be done.

“Everybody buys into the defensive philosophy because the more sound that is, it will lead to more confidence.”