Found a way to win: Lam
- Head Coach Adrian Lam reflects on Wigan’s victory over Castleford Tigers at the Halliwell Jones Stadium in the Betfred Super League.
- Lam: “Castleford were really tough, they were great, but I’m really pleased and proud of them.”
- Full time: Wigan Warriors 30-22 Castleford Tigers.
Adrian Lam praised his side’s ability to “readjust” after suffering early setbacks to overcome a resolute Castleford Tigers on Saturday in the Betfred Super League.
After going 12-nil down inside the opening quarter, Wigan put five tries past Daryl Powell’s side to win 30-22 at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
The victory leaves the Cherry and Whites four points clear at the top of the Betfred Super League.
Speaking to the press via Zoom link shortly after the final whistle, Lam pinpointed Wigan’s ability to cope with the injury of Liam Marshall and an early 12-point deficit as the key to their victory.
“We got an injury to winger Liam Marshall early on, and that’s always difficult to readjust your team. When that happens usually you lose your momentum, but we found a way to win.
“Castleford were really tough, they were great, but I’m really pleased, and proud of them (Wigan’s players).”
Providing an update on the severity of the injury to Marshall, Lam said: “He’s rolled his knee, so some sort of ligament damage. We will find out a little more tomorrow.”
Wigan had to make another decision in the wing department before kick off, bringing in Joe Burgess in the place of Dom Manfredi who pulled out on compassionate grounds.
Burgess made the most of his chance, bagging a first half try to help secure the eventual victory. On his performance, Lam said: “I’m really pleased for Joe. He was a little bit rough on the edges but his contribution to the team was outstanding.”
Despite their good run of form, the boss still urged caution that his side are not playing to the peak of their powers just yet.
“We’ve got a lot of improving to do yet. But I just know with the players we’ve got, we’ve had to keep it simple in this early stage post-lockdown. I think it’s now an opportunity to open up and play a bit of rugby over the next couple of weeks.”
Next up, the Warriors take on Hull KR at Emerald Headingley Stadium on Thursday night. The Head Coach highlighted a number of players who may be available for his side.
“Definitely Oliver Partington (returning from suspension), Oliver Gildart will come into consideration (following a shoulder injury) and with the short turnaround, Sean O’Loughlin is a 50/50.”
Wigan Warriors Head Coach Adrian Lam is proudly sponsored by Blue Sky Plumbing Limited.
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