Coach Matt Peet spoke of his “love” for Bevan French after Wigan Warriors’ star stand-off produced a man of the match performance in today’s 9-2 Grand Final win over Hull KR.
Wigan surprised French by flying his brother and uncle to England for the Old Trafford showpiece and he responded with a sensational individual effort, including scoring the only try.
Wigan have now won every available trophy inside 12 months with French being man of the match in their World Club, Challenge Cup and Grand Final victories.
“I love him to bits,” Peet said when asked about French in his post-match press conference. “It’s easy to love him when he has those moments, but I see how he conducts himself on a daily basis.”
French’s magic moment was the difference between the sides, but Peet reckoned defence was what won the game.
Wigan didn’t concede a try in their final four games of the season and Mikey Lewis’ penalty goal at Old Trafford was the only points scored against them in that time.
“The defence comes down to the spirit between the lads and the connection between the group,” Peet said.
“There’s some fantastic players in this team, Bevan deserves all the credit, but Harry Smith’s kicks were outstanding.
“I attach defence to team spirit and culture. Bevan had those moments with the ball, but he is also contributing in defence.
“Defence runs through everything we do and it looks like we are enjoying defending. Hull KR were moving the ball well and offloading and we kept turning up for each other.”
Peet stressed Wigan Warriors will look to improve again next year, but that’s something he’s not ready to think about yet.
“I’m really grateful we’ve had success and won trophies, but going forward our focus will be on how we can all improve,” he said.
“Now we are going to have a rest, let it sink in and reflect. It’s important we re-energise and refresh.”
French was the first winner of the new Rob Burrow Award as Grand Final player of the match. He received 25 of the 31 votes cast.
The award was presented by Burrow’s father Geoff and French said: “He was such a special player, he touched the lives of many and I am honoured to get the first one under his name.”
