Wigan Warriors issue statement after Wakefield Trinity friendly abandoned

Wigan Warriors played Wakefield Trinity on Friday in Matty Ashurst’s Testimonial in what was their first game following the opening of the new Neil Fox MBE Stand.

Whilst the game was abandoned after an hour due to floodlight failure, Wigan Warriors have issued a statement thanking Wakefield Trinity for their hospitality and congratulating them on their ambition to improve their facilities which will ultimately be a fantastic asset for their Club and the sport of Rugby League.

Wigan Warriors Chief Executive Kris Radlinski said: “Regrettably, Friday night’s game at Wakefield was marred by an interruption. Sometimes these things happen, and the match official’s decision to abandon the game was the correct call. Nonetheless, it’s crucial not to let this incident overshadow the overall success of the evening for the Wakefield club.

“The newly introduced stand and facilities were truly outstanding, reflecting the club’s vision and execution of a great project. Despite the setback in the game, we extend our congratulations to Wakefield for their commitment to enhancing the overall experience for fans and players alike.”

Off the field, Wigan have agreed on a dual registration partnership that will benefit both Clubs throughout 2024.

Radlinski added: “On behalf of our club, we would like to convey our best wishes to Wakefield for the upcoming 2024 season. May it be filled with success and positive outcomes on and off the field.”

The club added: “In addition, we would like to congratulate Matty Ashurst on a wonderful career in the game. Although it did not turn out to be his perfect night due to the floodlight failure, I think the number of people who attended showed just how well Matty is considered with the game.”

Wigan Warriors see friendly abandoned

Wigan Warriors faced Wakefield Trinity in a pre-season fixture with the dual registration partners, which was abandoned after the hour due to repeated floodlight failure.

The Warriors fielded a mixture of First Team and Reserves players for the fixture, which saw winger Jacob Douglas open the scoring. Wakefield hit back with three tries in the opening half through Renouf Atoni and a Jermaine McGillvary double.

Young half Jack Farrimond finished off an excellent chip over the top from Ryan Hampshire in the second half as Jermaine McGillvary completed a hat-trick before the match was abandoned by referee Chris Kendall.

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