Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet has reflected on his side’s Challenge Cup win against Bradford Bulls with two standout players hailed.
The first of those was prop forward Ethan Havard, who was voted Man of the Match in the 30-6 win over the Bulls, with the England international coming in for big praise from Peet.
“He’s playing fantastically well at the minute,” Peet explained in his presser, per club media.
He also addressed the incredible assist that Havard registered with the prop chipping a kick over into the corner for Zach Eckersley to latch onto, something that Peet explained as being a result of the forward’s growing confidence based on strong performances.
Peet explained: “You tend to find when you are playing well and you’re getting your physical and effort areas right, moments pop up for you like that. I could see the smile on his face and he’s enjoying his rugby at the minute, which is great to see.”
RFL error, coaches under pressure and Super League’s injury crisis – click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
Wigan Warriors boss hails debutant
Havard was one of several standouts with another being full-back Noah Hodkinson, who made his senior debut for Wigan in the absence of Jai Field and Bevan French.
On the full-back’s strong showing, Peet said: “Whenever you watch him through the grades, or in training, he’s a composed character. I can remember what it’s like when you’re Head of Youth and you pass someone over and they get that opportunity.
“I’m proud of the whole pathway for what Noah has done tonight.”
With Field still recovering from surgery after having his appendix removed and French a long-term injury, there could be a spell of games for Hodkinson, particularly after his strong showing.
Reflecting more generally on the game, the Wigan boss said: “I’m obviously pleased to be in the next round. I thought we looked organised and connected defensively against a team we know play a good style.
“It’s great that two lads made their debut which is a real bonus for us. It was a good night’s work.”
Signing Dayon Sambou was the other man to make his debut alongside Hodkinson with the former St Helens man scoring a try from an intercept.
🥾 From the boot of Ethan Havard
🔥 Finished in the corner by Zach EckersleyThe @AppliedNutri Moment of the Match against Bradford Bulls.#WWRL #ChallengeCup pic.twitter.com/GhI1R3P3hq
— Wigan Warriors 🍒⚪️ (@WiganWarriorsRL) March 14, 2026
Catalans Dragons
Catalans Dragons coach shares Joel Tomkins’ update amid exit reports
