Kear wants a sniff of Wembley

Wakefield coach John Kear reckons he’ll have the smell of Wembley in his nostrils if his side can overturn Castleford in their derby clash at the weekend.

Kear, who led Sheffield Eagles to their famous Challenge Cup triumph over Wigan in 1998, believes his Wildcats side are a force to be reckoned with in the competition this season.

He told the club’s official website: “This is a very big game and there’s a lot riding on it. There’s a positive aura around the place – we’re ready.

“Both teams will fancy their spot in the final and will be eager to make it to the final round. There’s not long now, only 2 more games after this weekend and you’re there, you can practically smell it once you get to the quarters!”

Kear has a fine pedigree in the Challenge Cup, having also led Hull to the 2005 trophy, defeating Leeds 25-24 in the final in his first season.