Wildcats star plays down iPitch controversy
February 08, 2012 12:02:48 UK
Despite complaints from at least one team-mate, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats half-back Tim Smith has played down concerns surrounding the controversial 'iPitch' surface at Widnes Vikings' Stobart Stadium home.
The Wildcats triumphed 32-14 on Friday evening, after overcoming a slow start and fighting back from a 10-4 half-time deficit.
If they like it, then I'm sure they'll keep it that way, we'll just have to wait and see. The game we play is the same though and I wouldn't like to think that other teams would use it as an excuse for losing.
Tim Smith
But the big talking point after the game was the Vikings' pitch, with Wakefield full-back Richard Mathers expressing his concern after suffering grazes during the 80 minutes.
However, Smith wasn't as keen as Mathers to raise the issue.
"I know a few boys got cuts and that, but it was dry and fast, and players like that. I thought it was alright, to be honest. I didn't find it any different at all with the kicks. I thought it was good to play on, and there were no dramas for me," he said.
"If they like it, then I'm sure they'll keep it that way, we'll just have to wait and see. The game we play is the same though and I wouldn't like to think that other teams would use it as an excuse for losing."
Smith is back in Super League following a spell in the NRL with Cronulla. He previously played in the UK for Wigan in 2008 and 2009.
"We're happy to get off the mark and pick up two points. We started off pretty slowly but once we got a feel for the game I thought we controlled it well. It was a good second debut in Super League for me and I'm glad to be back."
Wakefield will hope to continue their good start to the season when they host Hull KR on Sunday.
The Wildcats are 2.10 to see off the Robins and the draw is available at 19.00, while Hull KR can be backed at 1.72 to secure the win.
Don't forget all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on your mobile phone with the new and improved Mobile at bet365.
View all Rugby League betting