Zach Eckersley’s 68th-minute try proved the pivotal moment as Wigan Warriors took a 16-12 victory over rivals St Helens at The Brick Community Stadium.
It was a ferocious contest, as the derby always proves to be, with the forwards powering each side in a tough contest.
Saints’ Jack Welsby was the first to score as he combined with debutant Harry Robertson, but Jake Wardle hit back for Wigan as the sides went in 6-6 at half-time.
The tense atmosphere continued to show in the second half and St Helens got on top again through a converted Waqa Blake effort.
But after Adam Keighran went over in the corner, and Harry Smith added the extras, young Eckersley got his moment to remember with the pivotal try to win it 16-12 for the hosts.
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Jack Welsby finishes a long break to go under the sticks to give St Helens the lead against Wigan
Both sides were applauded after the contest by their fans in what was an enthralling contest.
There was a big call by Saints head coach Paul Wellens ahead of the match with Lewis Dodd dropped, Harry Robertson put in on debut at fullback and Welsby moved into the halves alongside skipper Jonny Lomax.
Wigan were without star man Bevan French, who is out for eight weeks after tearing his hamstring.
More to follow…
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