The Wigan Warriors, reigning Super League champions, have recently experienced a series of notable events that are shaping their 2025 season.
Historic Defeat in Season Opener
On February 13, 2025, Wigan faced the Leigh Leopards in a match that made Super League history. The game concluded regular time in a 0-0 stalemate—the first ever in the competition’s history. Despite Wigan being reduced to 12 men twice during the game, they held Leigh scoreless until extra time. In the third minute of golden point extra time, Leigh’s Gareth O’Brien secured a 1-0 victory with a field goal, marking Leigh’s first win over Wigan in over four decades.
The match was a defensive showcase, with both teams combining for 795 tackles. Wigan prop Luke Thompson made an impressive 57 tackles. The game also attracted a record-breaking crowd of 21,748 at The Brick Community Stadium, underscoring the growing popularity of the sport.
Upcoming Las Vegas Showcase
Looking ahead, Wigan is set to participate in a groundbreaking event on March 1, 2025. They will face the Warrington Wolves at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, marking the first time a Super League match will be played in the United States. This initiative aims to expand the sport’s reach and tap into the American market. Wigan’s head coach, Matt Peet, has expressed excitement about the opportunity, emphasizing the club’s commitment to promoting rugby league on a global scale.
Players are also eager about the Las Vegas fixture. Prop Kaide Ellis described the upcoming match at the NFL’s Allegiant Stadium as a “pinch me moment,” highlighting the significance of playing in such a renowned venue. The event is expected to draw significant attention, potentially opening new avenues for the sport’s growth internationally.
Focus on Continuous Improvement
Despite their previous successes, including a historic quadruple win last season, Coach Matt Peet remains focused on continuous improvement. He emphasizes the importance of learning from past performances to maintain the team’s competitive edge. Peet’s approach includes fostering a strong community connection, with open training sessions and local engagement initiatives, ensuring that the club remains grounded and connected to its roots.
As the season progresses, Wigan Warriors are poised to navigate the challenges ahead, balancing the pressures of past achievements with the ambition to break new ground, both on the field and in expanding the sport’s global footprint.
Be the first to comment