Matt Peet pays tribute to the surprise man who “won us the game” despite not being a Wigan player anymore

As Wigan Warriors defeated Leeds Rhinos on Saturday the focus was on the on field stars.

The likes of Bevan French, Harry Smith and Harry Newman were all key but it was a surprise figure off the field who Matt Peet believes won the game for the Warriors.

He said after the game that Wigan legend and former skipper Thomas Leuluai was the man who won the game for the Warriors:

“I want to mention that Thomas Leuluai spoke to the players this week. His coaching has been outstanding this week and the way he spoke to our players this week probably won us that game.

“Everyone can bring their own experiences, but because he is so fresh and only played last year his experience is so valuable.

“He knows what wins big games. He is a man of integrity. In those games when you look to the side of you, you would feel better if you see him.

“When he speaks people listen. He was my captain the first year I was coach and I loved the way he spoke to the players this week and I thought it was a special week for him. I was really impressed with him.”