Wigan Warriors Maintain the Pressure on League Leaders Hull KR with 26-18 Victory over Catalans Dragons
Wigan Warriors kept pace with table-topping Hull Kingston Rovers, securing a hard-fought 26-18 win over the Catalans Dragons at the Stade Gilbert Brutus. The match was tied at 12-12 at halftime, but Matt Peet’s side produced a strong second-half display to claim the two valuable points.
Junior Nsemba was the standout performer for the Warriors, with the towering back-rower making 13 carries and 26 tackles in a tireless display. The 20-year-old academy product deservedly earned the Player of the Match award after getting on the scoresheet, showcasing his immense potential.
“Junior Nsemba’s performance was truly impressive. He was a dominant force throughout the match, making crucial contributions at both ends of the field.”
Young hooker Tom Forber also made his mark, scoring a crucial try just before the break to level the scores and swing the momentum in Wigan’s favor. The 21-year-old’s best performance yet in cherry and white was a testament to the club’s impressive conveyor belt of talent.
The return of Wigan superstar Bevan French from a hamstring injury was another talking point, though the reigning Man of Steel made a mixed return, with a couple of errors. But the Warriors are undoubtedly a more fluent and sharp attacking unit with French in the lineup, and his comeback at the business end of the season is a welcome boost.
Kaide Ellis also reached a personal milestone, making his 100th career appearance, with 74 of those coming in Wigan colors. The Australian forward has developed into a key leader for Peet’s side this season.
Meanwhile, the news was not so positive for the visiting Catalans Dragons, who have now slipped outside the top six for the first time this year. Steve McNamara’s side have won just one of their last five games and face a crucial run-in, with matches against Salford, London, and Hull FC, as they battle to secure a playoff spot.
The race for the League Leaders’ Shield is set to go down to the wire, with Wigan and Hull KR level on 38 points with three games remaining. Their meeting next week at the Bri Community Stadium promises to be a blockbuster clash, with the winner likely to claim the coveted prize.
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