Lam previews the Grand Final
- Head Coach looks ahead to Friday’s battle for the 2020 title with St Helens.
- Lam: “Everyone will be watching at home, so the best reward will be a great performance and a win.”
- Wigan Warriors vs St Helens, Friday 27th November, KCOM Stadium, K.O. 8pm.
Head coach Adrian Lam expects Friday’s Grand Final to be a game of the highest quality as his Wigan side take on rivals St Helens (K.O. 8pm)
The last time the two clubs met back in October was lauded by many as one of the games of the season.
Speaking in a joint press conference with Saints head coach Kristian Woolf via Zoom on Tuesday afternoon, Lam explained why he thought Friday’s final would be no different.
“We’ve been with the group preparing for this moment for the last twelve months. It’s been a long time coming.
“I think it will be as good of a game as we’ve seen all season. We played a few weeks back and I think it was the best game this year, in the NRL or in Super League, and I can’t see this one being any different.”
Obviously, the Final will be like no other, with the climax of the Betfred Super League season being played in front of an empty KCOM Stadium.
On the lack of atmosphere, Lam said: “Not having the crowd in the Semi Final was a weird experience, and I guess it’ll be no different on Friday night.
“Our fans haven’t been able to come to games. With everyone watching at home, the best reward will be a great performance and a win.”
The game will also hold some extra significance, with club captain Sean O’Loughlin planning to call time on his career after the final whistle.
St Helens are in a similar position, with veteran forward James Graham also set to hang up his boots.
On the added significance of the retiring players, the boss said: “Both clubs are in a similar position in wanting to send out their heroes on a high.
“Sean’s personality means he tries to go under the radar, but it’s important that we play for him I feel.
“We’re gonna miss him obviously, but we will play well for him on Friday night.”
As the Papua New Guinean closes in on two years as head coach of the Warriors, the last two weeks have brought celebration with the League Leaders’ Shield victory and the personal achievement of the 2020 Coach of the Year award.
Speaking on his achievements so far as a coach, Lam said:: “I’ve enjoyed my two years here so far.
“There’s been plenty of positives, but winning on Friday would be the absolute highlight.”
Lam also provided some updates on key players ahead of Wednesday’s 21-man squad announcement.
On Sam Powell, who missed out on last week’s Semi Final, he said: “He should be fit and ready to play on Friday.”
On Ben Flower, who left the field injured against Hull FC last week with a hamstring injury, he said: “Yes, he will be out for this one.”
To experience a full interactive display of exciting content that helps to bring our new badge and its story to life, visit our badge microsite now.
Be among the first fans to get your hands on the new look by checking out our 2021 hummel replica kits, training range and travel wear in our online store.
