Huddersfield Giants’ interim coach Luke Robinson expressed admiration for his former team, Wigan Warriors, after their Super League Round 20 match. He highlighted Jake Wardle for his pivotal try, which helped Wigan secure a 28-14 win.
Robinson described the 25-year-old Wardle as ‘the best English center’ in Super League after his exceptional solo try, which changed the game’s momentum in the second half.
The Giants led 8-0 at halftime, with a try from ex-Wigan center Jake Bibby keeping the hosts scoreless. However, Wigan turned the game around with additional tries from Jai Field, Ryan Hampshire, and Zach Eckersley, while Adam Keighran successfully converted all six of his kicks.
Jake Wardle scored a length-of-the-field try for Wigan’s first points against Huddersfield Giants
Robinson commented, “The effort and desire were unquestionable. We gave it our all and supported each other throughout.”
He added, “Jake Wardle’s performance caused a momentum shift in the second half. It frustrates me that he’s up against us because I believe he’s currently the best English center in the competition.”
Robinson reminisced, “He was part of my academy, and after being out for about two years, he scored four or five tries in his first game back.”
He continued, “We seemed to have the upper hand in the first half, and if we had maintained that performance, we might have achieved something. Unfortunately, that breakaway try was a real setback.”
In addition to his try, star full-back Field also made a crucial try-saving tackle on Bibby during the first half. Field had been sidelined for six games since the Challenge Cup Final in June due to a hamstring injury.
Robinson added, “Wigan are a top-quality team. When I saw Jai Field was back, I thought, ‘Oh.’ His speed is exceptional, and combined with Jake Wardle, they can change a game in an instant.”
He continued, “We let ourselves down in some areas. We put ourselves under too much pressure, and when you give field position to a strong team like Wigan, they will eventually take advantage.”