Wigan Warriors boss Matty Peet hails John Bateman and Sam Powell in win over Salford Red Devils and talks Bevan French and Kai Pearce-Paul

Wigan Warriors ran out 20-0 deserved winners against Salford Red Devils tonight in a hard-fought Challenge Cup Sixth Round tie.

The Warriors were up 14-0 at half-time and scored just one more try after the break, but the defence stood resolutely firm to keep Salford out for the whole match.

And, Wigan boss Matty Peet spoke after the game about his delight at the win.

“We’re delighted; we would have taken a one-point win before the game to be in the next round but to win with a bit of space is very pleasing,” Peet told Premier Sports after the game.

“I’m happy, but I don’t think we’ve got to grips with it so far this season.

“Our attack has improved but defensively I don’t think we’ve been where we want to be.

“Tonight I think you could tell that concentration level was at the next level.”

Peet had some great words to say about Sam Powell and John Bateman following two stellar performances in the middle and out wide after the latter was forced to centre following Kai Pearce-Paul’s injury.

“For teams to win they’ve got to get their best players playing well and it’s my job to get the best out of my lads.

“John has been defending really well and you’re starting to see signs of his hard work paying off – his offloads and unexpected plays, you can see him building his game.

“Sam Powell tonight was outstanding.”

When asked about how he would fit both Bevan French and Jai Field into this team, Peet gave a superb answer.

“I don’t find that a challenge at all and I don’t mind playing people in different positions.

“I will pick people on form.

“We’ve got Iain Thornley, Brad Singleton, and Kaide Ellis to come back and they are the decisions I want to be making.

“We lose Kai tonight so straight away a slot opens up.”