Wigan Warriors prepare to welcome back home crowd for Hull KR clash

For the first time in 15 months, the Warriors faithful will have the opportunity to spectate their side in the famous cherry and white as Wigan face an in-form Hull KR side.

Ironically, the last time fans were permitted into the DW Stadium to watch a game of Rugby League, was this exact fixture when Rovers were the visitors but fell to a 30-16 defeat.  

Hull KR will be looking to continue their good run of form after winning three of their last four games, whilst scoring a collective of 80 points across their last two matches. However, the last time they came away with two points in a league game at the DW was back in May 2009, suggesting Rovers haven’t always enjoyed their trip to Greater Manchester.  

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Adrian Lam was full of praise for his upcoming opponents but was keen to come back and right the wrongs of the last performance that saw Wigan lose 48-0 away to Catalan Dragons, seeing the Warriors slip to third in the Betfred Super League. 

Lam however did seem in high spirits despite the previous result, with the likes of Oliver Gildart and Liam Marshall back available for selection. When asked about the extent of Bevan French’s injury, the Warriors head coach revealed that the Australian had now ‘had surgery’ and the club are now awaiting back from the surgeon to get specifics in terms of a timeline.  

Wigan will be without Zak Hardacre who has been filling in at full-back as he will serve the first of a two-match suspension. Lam stated that his options for full-back would include academy fullback Umyla Hanley, son of Wigan legend Ellery Hanley, who turned 18 in March. 

As for Hull KR, Jordan Abdull, George Lawler and Dean Hadley all retain their places in the squad after suffering head knocks last time out against Salford. Rovers will also be boosted by the news that skipper Shaun Kenny-Dowall has signed a one-year contract extension after being named in the squad to face the Warriors.  

But of course, this game will mean more than most to Wigan fans. The first time they have been able to step foot on home soil in 15 months and watch their side live in action. When asked if he had a message for the returning fans, Adrian Lam gave an inspiring response,

“I just want them to get in there and have fun.

“I want them to wear their colours, show Hull they’re in enemy territory, and just enjoy themselves have fun and get behind the boys because we’ve missed them, and we’re looking forward to playing in front of them and that’s why we need to have a great performance.” 

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