Wigan Warriors boss Matt Peet has assessed his side’s 40-16 victory over Catalans Dragons in Paris.
Scoring seven tries, the Warriors took a 30-6 lead into the break, before a 10-10 scoreline in the second half was enough to take a convincing win.
Halves pairing Jack Farrimond and George Marsden shone in the absence of Bevan French and Harry Smith, whilst Junior Nsemba had a stormer of a game in the back row.
Plenty thought there would be somewhat of a hangover following last week’s Challenge Cup win, however there were no signs of that at all, with their start being particularly impressive.
Scoring in the opening three minutes, Wigan added a second via Nsemba on the 15-minute mark.
Assessing that start, Peet told Sky Sports: “We know Catalans are a very brave team, so we thought it was important that we match that physicality at the start, kick well, and it paid us back.”
And on the game overall, the boss added: “[I’m] very happy. We knew it was a tricky game after Wembley.
“[It was a] big game for Catalans, obviously with a new coach. I would have taken a one-point win, so to win in that manner, I’m really pleased.”
Commenting on the young halves pairing, who both crossed for spectacular tries in their own right, Peet said: “You want to see our reserve half-backs in training, Bevan and Harry!
“That brought some uncertainty around the game today, you’ve got inexperienced halves coming to a fixture like this. They managed it really well.
“They both defended tough. I’m so proud of them. It’s a great reflection of the club.”
Wigan, like Leigh Leopards, have a period of games away from home due to work being done at their home ground. The next few weeks will be crucial for the Warriors in their hopes of climbing up the ladder.
Peet sent a message to the loyal Wigan supporters ahead of the challenging period, with their support vital to the Warriors success in recent weeks.
“I suppose that’s a bit of a request to them, if you keep coming out following us, the boys enjoy being away from home in the hotels and getting a good night’s sleep.
“They look like they’re enjoying the rugby at the moment. We have got some very tough fixtures, Wakefield away next week.
“It’ll be a massive test, but we’re going to get our work done at the weekend. Hopefully we can put a performance on for the supporters at the weekend.”
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