UPDATED: Wigan has raised the standard for World Club Challenge glory.

 

• Castleford Tigers 4-32 Wigan Warriors
• Champions make winning start in first BBC Super League match

In preparation for next weekend’s World Club Challenge, Wigan Warriors had a satisfactory warm-up match against Castleford Tigers on a significant night for Super League.

The Warriors, defending their title from last autumn’s victory at Old Trafford, started their campaign with a win. However, the circumstances of their victory may have implications as they face the reigning NRL premiers, Penrith Panthers, in a week.

The true cost of the win will only be known in the coming days. Half-back Harry Smith’s sin-binning in the first half, for a tackle that will be reviewed by the disciplinary panel next week, could potentially lead to him being banned for the upcoming game.

Luke Thompson will be unavailable after suffering a concussion in the first half, which means Matt Peet could be without two key players. Peet expressed concern about his team’s discipline, especially given the slippery conditions and the upcoming important match. He emphasized the team’s responsibility to represent the town and the British game well, aiming to finish the current match without any further injuries.

Castleford struggled after Liam Watts received a first-half red card, highlighting rugby league’s stricter rules on head contact. Despite their efforts, Castleford couldn’t recover, eventually losing the match. Their coach, Craig Lingard, praised their effort and commitment to the team.

The game marked a significant moment for Super League, being broadcast live on the BBC for the first time. This milestone, attributed in part to the league’s partnership with IMG, signifies a major achievement for rugby league, providing prime free-to-air exposure.

Despite heavy rain at the start, which seemed to favor the hosts and hinder Wigan’s attacking play, both teams initially held their ground. However, Castleford took a narrow lead following penalties from Smith and Richardson. Smith’s sin-binning for a dangerous tackle and Thompson’s concussion test failure added to Wigan’s challenges. Nonetheless, Castleford’s lead was short-lived, and the match eventually swung in Wigan’s favor.

Watts received a straight red card for a shoulder charge to Tyler Dupree’s head, which gave Wigan an advantage. They scored the first try of the night through Patrick Mago and then extended their lead with a try from Bevan French before halftime.

Despite Castleford’s resilience, it was evident that playing with fewer players would eventually take its toll. Wigan capitalized on their advantage in the final quarter. Liam Marshall scored after a fine move, and Abbas Miski’s break led to a try for Kruise Leeming, who was making his Wigan debut. Smith converted both tries, and at 26-4, the result was beyond doubt. Marshall scored his second try late in the game, but by then, Wigan was already thinking ahead to the next weekend.