Wigan hit Wakefield for 11 tries as Warriors claim first win of 2023

It took until round two for Wigan to get their first win of the campaign, but it came in style as Liam Marshall scored four tries as part of Wigan’s 11 on the night which beat Wakefield Trinity 60-0.

It was Wigan’s home opener in front of a bumper crowd of 12,306 as tries flew over with the Warriors well into their stride leading 34-0 at the half-time hooter.

Liam Marshall had two at that point along with a double from Bevan French and Liam Farrell also getting his name on the scoresheet meaning he’s one try away from becoming Wigan’s 23^rd all-time top try scorer.

The second half saw more of the same immediately from the off as Marshall completed his hat-trick, flying over in front of the South stand at the D.W. Stadium before claiming his fourth of the evening and his fifth of the season after claiming one at Craven Park last week.

But the scoring didn’t stop there for Wigan with Sam Powell taking advantage of a short goal line drop out to score his first of the season in his testimonial year before Harry Smith showed great drive to cap off his eight successful conversations with a try of his own.

And the night was topped off by Cade Cust who rounded off a superb performance to twist away from two tackles to get over the line and seal the 60-0 score line.

Taking nothing away from the Warriors, Wakefield were absolutely dismal in both attack and defence. On the few occasions when they was gifted an attack, silly, careless errors ensure Wigan were given possession back right away.

Speaking post-match, Head Coach Mark Applegarth said: “The half time score is unacceptable. We got rolled over far too easy and our defensive application was a mile off and not acceptable. But I’m Head Coach and I’ll take full responsibility.”

As for the victorious manager who was joined alongside his captain in the post-match press conference, Matt Peet said: “We’ve got to make sure we’re still driving our standards and keep improving. We was patient and in the end, we got the points so roll on next week.

“The lads who missed our were unfortunate to do so. But what we can do is rotate the squad and we will continue to do so until we find our best 17.”

Peet and Farrell was also full of praise of four-try scorer – but not too much praise!

The head coach said: “He’s a very good lad and he gets what he deserves so I’m pleased for him. He epitomises the ‘never say die’ attitude and when he’s not winding us all up, he’s a pleasure to be around.

“His story is brilliant one and just shows what a credit he is to himself and his family.”

Farrell added: “He’s a very grounded and bubbly lad that’s found a way to show his best on the Rugby pitch – that’s all the praise he’s getting!

But following on from the flawless home victory, Wigan now take on Castleford Tigers at the Jungle with a view to build some momentum following their disappointing opening day defeat.

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