Lam: Unacceptable

• Adrian Lam reflects on Wigan’s Semi Final defeat to Leeds Rhinos.
• Lam: “We will take a couple of days to get over this and then we will have to move on.”
• Full time: Leeds Rhinos 26-12 Wigan Warriors.

Head Coach Adrian Lam expressed his disappointment and frustration following Wigan’s Coral Challenge Cup Semi Final defeat to Leeds Rhinos.

Despite a late rally from the Warriors scoring two tries, Leeds’ first half total was too much for Wigan to catch by the final hooter.

Speaking to the media via Zoom link in his post-match press conference, Lam offered his thoughts on the result.

“I’m devastated for everyone really. We were a completely different team out there today.”

The conditions at St Helens’ Totally Wicked Stadium were extremely challenging, with heavy rain and swirling wind forcing both sides to adapt their approaches.

On Leeds coping better, Lam said: “We wanted to play the same way they did to be honest, they just executed it better. 

“For the first 15-20 minutes we couldn’t get out of our own 20-metre line. Our kicking game was not good.

“I know the team is devastated and the fans are. We will get to the bottom of it.”

Wigan return to action in just six days when they take on Warrington in the Betfred Super League.

On bouncing back from Saturday’s defeat, the boss said: “That’s the difficult part, but sometimes as players it’s good to get back into the motions as soon as possible.”

“We will take a couple of days to get over this and then we will have to move on.”

Young forward Ethan Havard left the field in the first half with an ankle issue.

Updating on Havard’s condition, the Papua New Guinean said: “I’m not too sure just yet. He’s injured an existing ankle issue so we will have a look at that tomorrow.”

There was also news on forward Jack Wells, who picked up a knee injury earlier in the week against St Helens.

Lam said: “Bad news for Jack, he’s dislocated his knee cap, he’s torn his MCL (medial cruciate ligament) and potential cartilage as well. 

“He’s going to be out for up to three months, which really isn’t ideal. We are going to miss him which is a blow to him and the Club.”