TONY Smith says Warrington Wolves youngster Declan Patton was taught some lessons at Wigan Warriors – but ones that will serve him well.

Patton produced an impressive kicking game, but Wolves’ left edge was found wanting at times as Wigan recorded a 30-20 victory.

And after storming onto the scene during his debut against Wakefield on Saturday, Smith says Thursday’s defeat will prove beneficial in Patton’s long-term development.

“I loved some parts of it,” he said. “I see all his game, his kicking game was sensational and I love him when he’s running with the ball, squaring players up.

“He got taught a few lessons there by Joel and Gelling there. He got ragged around defensively a few times.

“While loving some aspects of his game, there are some aspects of his game he needs to really step up. He copped it a little bit and learned some lessons there.

“That’s how you get better. I remember watching Andrew Johns and Matthew Johns when they hit the scene.

“People used to rag them around. By the end of it Andrew Johns was one of the best defending half backs I’ve ever seen.

“That’s why that kid’s got a challenge and he learned some harsh lessons.

“He understands that and he’ll learn lessons from that. He’ll take things in his stride when things go well and when things don’t go so well.”