Wigan Warriors • Wakefield (a)

Having just the watched the match here are a couple thoughts.

Firstly, in light of a couple posts from Wakey fans, I need to address the reffing. If you want the very definition of "refereeing inconsistency" check out Wakefield's first kick of the game and the one that was penalised at the end. There is absolutely no difference yet one was given as a penalty. Neither was a penalty. Secondly, the last "knock on" that turned possession over was a disgraceful decision. In the end, credit to Wakefield for hanging in there when the game was "gone" but, ultimately, the game was gifted to them by two utterly ridiculous refereeing decisions.

On to Wigan.

There's nothing wrong with Cust per se, but unfortunately he adds nothing extra. Using a bench spot just to give O'Neil a 10 minute breather, especially for a team light on props, is tantamount to recklessness. Peet needs to be ruthless. I'm sure Cade is a great guy but enough already! Play the extra forward that we actually need. If O'Neill needs a break, slot Shorrocks in at dummy half for 10 minutes. An extra forward is FAR more useful to us than a "more of the same" interchange hooker for a few minutes a match.

Field MUST play 6. We abandoned that far too early. If he doesn't trust him defending in the line switch him and French around when defending. Bevan is far more effective at 1. Jai is far more effective than Bevan attacking in the line. For God's sake use the tools at our disposal to their best advantage. The "conundrum" is only that if we make it one, which is exactly what we're doing at the moment.

Mago was fine. The performance he put in at Wakefield would have been exactly what we need from a bench prop. Unfortunately, minus Cooper, Havard and Ellis, we're lacking too much firepower before he comes on. There isn't a simple answer but playing an extra forward would certainly help.

Nsemba has to play. He was the best back rower on the pitch. Again. I understand he and Hill are young but players will be back soon. Rest them then. Right now we need them on the pitch.

Congrats to Wakefield. The win could revitalise them for the back end of the season but I can't help feeling that was one that got away.