NRL press still seemingly moaning about Wigan Warriors try

Wigan Warriors defeated Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge in an outstanding clash between the Super League and NRL Premiers.

The game though was laced with controversy. From Bevan French’s disallowed try to the Penrith try that was disallowed at the death, there were a number of big calls to be made including the winning try for Jake Wardle which made it 16-12.

It was widely believed that Wardle was held short and this has led to huge criticism from those down under.

Even a week on from the game, it seems that those down under are still disappointed with the decision.

There are still cartoons emerging in papers criticising the decision such as one claiming the try line at Wigan was double the length.

Wigan Warriors star reflects on special win

Reflecting on Wigan’s 16-12 victory over Penrith Panthers at the DW Stadium, O’Neill said to the club’s website: “It’s not sunk in just yet but I’m sure it will in a couple morqe days – I still can’t quite believe it.

“I enjoyed watching the match back and remembering just how tough and physical it was. I’m glad we could get the job done.”

O’Neill completed the most tackles [48] for the Warriors on Saturday night, and speaking on the toughness of the clash against the NRL premiers, he said: “It was all about doing what you had to do to win – so that involved tackling anything that came in front of me.

“Penrith are a big physical pack with some great ball carriers so it was important our defence as a team was at its best.”

On playing in front of a sold out DW Stadium, O’Neill said: “It was pretty special walking out in front of such an incredible atmosphere. You don’t get the chance to play in those big games very often which made Saturday night even more special that we were able to make and share those memories with our fans.”

O’Neill made his 50th appearance for the Warriors in the win, and on hitting the milestone, he said: “I’m really proud to have worn the shirt 50 times for this Club. It’s been an incredible couple of years so far with some massive wins in massive games – I cannot wait to continue.”

Expressing his motivation for the season ahead, O’Neill said: “Our desire is to keep playing in these big games but its important we continue to build and improve in order to reach them. We’ve all had a taste of it now which has created a real hunger for more.”