Wainwright was last week given a special award to mark his 400th game for the club and he is sure to be a key figure once more as Deeside face Telford Tigers twice this weekend.

On the impact that Wainwright has made, Dragons’ head coach Clancy said: “Milestones like this don’t happen by accident.

“They’re earned through years of hard work, sacrifice and dedication. Wainy has been part of the journey of this club, and reaching 400 appearances is a testament to his commitment to the Dragons.

“On behalf of myself, the coaching staff and everyone involved with the club, I’d like to congratulate Wainy on this fantastic milestone. 400 games in a Dragons jersey is something special. Congratulations, Wainy, and here’s to many more!”

It will be a case of trying to bounce back from Deeside’s perspective over the coming days.

The team’s perfect start to the Division One North season was halted by defeats at the hands of Leeds and league leaders Solihull, with Dragons looking to put things right away to Telford tomorrow.

Then, on Sunday, Deeside will have home advantage for their next meeting with Telford.

Dragons’ unbeaten start to the season ended with their 5-3 loss away to Leeds Knights and this was followed 24 hours later by a 7-4 home reverse versus Solihull.

Sunday’s other fixtures: Billingham v Sheffield; Leeds v Blackburn; Nottingham v Hull; Widnes v Solihull. Tomorrow: Blackburn v Widnes; Leeds v Solihull.

Tomorrow’s Division Two North fixtures: Altrincham v Sutton; Coventry v Nottingham; Kingston v Widnes. Sunday: Bradford v Kingston; Sutton v Billingham.