Daryl Powell has identified Wakefield Trinity's next two fixtures as crucial in their bid to become a "champion team".

Trinity entered round nine as joint leaders of Super League after winning six of their opening eight games.

Powell expects to learn more about his side's title prospects on the road against fellow high-fliers St Helens and Leeds Rhinos.

"Super League is a long haul but these next two games are absolutely crucial for us," he said.

"I don't think it's defining but it's important that we're in the right place mentally and can handle the pressure of these games against the better teams.

"We were close against Wigan (in the Challenge Cup). I'm still trying to figure out how we lost that game.

"These next two games are pivotal. They're big markers for us. If you're going to be a champion team, you have to be able to handle these situations."

Wakefield are protecting a five-match winning run in Super League, while they also boast the best defensive record.

Wakefield are flying high but are set to learn more about their title chances. (Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — Wakefield are flying high but are set to learn more about their title chances. (Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com)

But St Helens have dominated recent meetings between the sides, winning all three encounters last season.

"The challenge for us is consistency," said Powell.

"Saints are the only team we haven't beaten in the last couple of years in Super League. That makes this pretty big for us.

"We know it's a seriously tough game but it's quite exciting in lots of ways.

"It'll give us a decent picture of where we're at. Going over there and doing well has always been a tough challenge.

"It's awesome for us at this stage of the season to go and really test ourselves in a pretty tough arena.

"We want to be a team that doesn't fear anything. That's our next step and challenge."

Mason Lino and Max Jowitt miss out with minor issues, joining Isaiah Vagana and Lachlan Walmsley on the injury list.

But Powell has able deputies in Josh Rourke and Jack Sinfield.

"We've worked hard on our depth and players are growing and developing within what we're doing," said the Wakefield boss. "That's what coaching is about.

"If we continue to get that right, it doesn't matter who comes out of the team. You'll be a little bit different because every player is different but if they can all do a job to a high level, we'll always be difficult to beat."