Wigan Warriors Hand Permanent Goal-Kicking Duties to Adam Keighran
In a pivotal decision, Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet has confirmed that the team’s goal-kicking responsibilities will be permanently entrusted to Adam Keighran, with Harry Smith relieved of the role.
Smith, who faced criticism for his accuracy with the boot at times last year, had converted 29 of his 47 attempts across all competitions prior to the recent Super League Round 8 clash against Castleford Tigers. However, he struggled, missing six of 12 attempts in the previous weekend’s Challenge Cup tie against the same opponents.
To the surprise of the DW Stadium crowd, Keighran – Wigan’s off-season recruit from the Catalans Dragons, where he was their primary kicker in 2023 – stepped up and successfully converted the opening try scored by Bevan French.
While Smith did resume kicking duties once Keighran had been withdrawn in the second half, Peet confirmed in the post-match interview that the Australian ace would now be the permanent goal-kicker for the Warriors.
“It’s not a headache at all. I’ve made the decision to give Adam the goal-kicking and that’s how it’ll stay,” said Peet, who saw Wigan earn 12 points with the boot in their 36-14 win over Castleford.
Peet praised the positive attitude of both Keighran and Smith, noting that the two work closely together on their goal-kicking skills and are good friends. The coach also confirmed that Keighran’s withdrawal was solely a precautionary measure due to a knock, and that there was no serious concern about his fitness.
The Wigan Warriors’ decision to hand the goal-kicking duties to the experienced Keighran is a strategic move aimed at shoring up their kicking game and maximizing their scoring opportunities in the highly competitive rugby league landscape.
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