Shaun Wane emotional after Wigan’s derby win over St Helens

Shaun Wane was a bit emotional after Wigan’s win at St Helens for a number of reasons.

The Warriors put in a dominant display to run-out 30-10 winners against Saints at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday night.

Wigan stopped St Helens from lifting the League Leaders’ Shield on the night and it was Wane’s last trip to his old enemy as head coach of the Warriors.

Speaking after the game, Wane said: “There were some emotional players in the changing rooms, we didn’t want to be stood there while they got the League Leaders’ Shield.

“St Helens deserve it, but we didn’t want them getting it in that game. They threw the gauntlet down about wanting the League Leaders’ Shield and getting a 3-0 win over us and they were the motivating factors for us. They will get it and they fully deserve it and that makes the win that bit more special as well.

“There was a bit of emotion when I spoke to the players. There were a few things that the players said to me when we were coming off the field so it was emotional.

“I’ve enjoyed coming to St Helens, we have had some good hidings here and we have had some good wins here. It is enjoyable because I have a lot of respect for people there and they are always a team that turn up. The myth that I detest St Helens is wrong, I respect this club but I enjoy beating them.”

Joe Greenwood put in a man of the match display against his former club, and Wane also picked out John Bateman and Sam Powell out for praise.

He added: “Joe played well but there is so much improvement in him that it’s frustrating.

“He is making improvements every week but I want him to get better and he will get better. Batty [John Bateman] was good. I don’t know how he does it but he just competes and is a born competitor. He was hard to handle.

“Sam Powell played 80 minutes and defended great. Sam was immense. Our team song was one of the best and it was a very enjoyable win.”