The fireworks were lit at the DW Stadium last night as Wigan Warriors delivered a sizzling 38-16 drubbing to their bitter derby rivals St Helens. Just hours after the shock news broke that Paul Rowley was shown the door, it seemed business as usual for the Saints, but Wigan had other plans – and they were ready to unleash hell!
Rowley's tenure as head coach may have been a brief nine months, but it's clear his exit won't be the silver bullet St Helens thought it would be. The team was reeling at seventh spot in the Super League table, threatening their prized playoff qualification streak. But despite the change at the top, they couldn't find the magic on the pitch – and Wigan were all too happy to take advantage.
Bevan French, back from injury, was the catalyst for Wigan's assault, scoring a try and laying on an astonishing four assists in a performance that left fans and pundits alike purring with delight. It was a timely reminder of why he's considered one of the league's top talents – and just what St Helens will need to overcome if they're to mount a serious Grand Final challenge.
St Helens got off to a flyer, with Jack Welsby scoring an early try for England, and even regained the lead through Jacob Douglas in his long-awaited debut. But it was all Wigan from there – with Zach Eckersley bagging two tries before half-time, including one that denied St Helens a crucial video review-aided try just before the interval.
Wigan took control in the second half and never looked back, with Oli Partington scoring twice to seal their victory. Adam Keighran chipped in too, assisted by French – who was once again the master of ceremonies. Even a late consolation from Lewis Murphy for St Helens couldn't stem the tide as Wigan's win lit up the Super League standings.