Matt Peet addresses Bevan French injury and John Bateman red card as Wigan Warriors boss praises Leeds Rhinos

Wigan Warriors went into their clash against the Leeds Rhinos tonight knowing that a win would take them into the Grand Final.

Wigan hadn’t lost all year at the DW Stadium, but that run was ended against a tough and disciplined Leeds side whose defence was incredible at times.

And, the Warriors boss Matt Peet waxed lyrical about the Rhinos’ performance in what he described as a ‘tough’ loss to take.

“It’s a tough one, I am sad because I wanted another week with the group,” Peet said after the game.

“They are such a pleasure to work with, I remain very proud.

“This evening belongs to Leeds and it bought they were worthy winners. They deserve to be in the final.

“They defended our plays and turned us away from their line. They handled their tough periods harder than ours.”

Peet was also asked about two flashpoints in the game that had a big bearing on the end result: Bevan French’s injury and John Bateman’s red card.

Bateman saw red for a horror shot on Leeds man Aidan Sezer who had to be taken off the field moments later, but Peet had no complaints.

“They are big but that’s what big games are won and lost on. The injury is part of the game and you’ve got to roll with that,” Peet continued.

“The red card, John has got that wrong with all the best intentions. It’s a split second error. I’ve got no complaints.

“I thought Rohan and his team are playing with a lot of pride, I’m really proud of our team.”