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Rugby League

O'Loughlin set for Wigan return

08/11/2007

Sean O'Loughlin is looking forward to a "special occasion" on Saturday as he prepares to start for Great Britain in his hometown of Wigan.

The Warriors loose forward, who is the only representative of the club in the 25-man Lions squad for the Test series against New Zealand, is in line to be in the XIII for the third match at the JJB Stadium on Saturday.

Great Britain hold an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series and will be looking to secure a whitewash over the touring Kiwis with a win.

And O'Loughlin said he cannot wait to take the field for the final match in front of his home crowd.

"It's a special occasion playing at your hometown club for Great Britain," said the Wigan skipper.

"I made my first appearance at the JJB, which was a great experience, and I'm sure this weekend will be the same. Hopefully there will be a big crowd and it will be great if we can make it 3-0."

Great Britain coach Tony Smith also hailed the contribution of O'Loughlin in the first two Tests, particularly since he was originally due to start from the bench before Kevin Sinfield's late withdrawal with a stomach bug.

O'Loughlin impressed in the first match, a 20-14 win, and the head coach kept faith with him for the second fixture – an even more impressive 44-0 drubbing.

"Sean has been terrific," said Smith.

"He came into the starting team when he was originally going to be on the bench and played great in the loose forward position.

"I had no hesitation in putting him into the second row as a starter and he's done a great job."