Pat Richards: Wigan gave me the best eight years of my life

Former Man of Steel Pat Richards has thanked Wigan for giving him “the best eight years of my life” and backed Matty Peet to deliver further success.

The former winger won two Grand Finals with the club in 2010 and 2013. He believes the current team can emulate some of the success that he achieved in the Cherry and White.

Reflecting on his career in the UK, Richards told the Love Rugby League Podcast: “I absolutely loved it, it’s probably the best eight years of my life. Out of my whole career I definitely played my best footy over there.

“In 2010 when we won the competition, it was an amazing year and an amazing side to be a part of. My job was on the wing at the end of an amazing backline. Our forwards were dominating and our backs were getting me and Josh Charnley great opportunities to score tries and kick goals.

“Great memories and great friends and the derbies and finals were eight years of pleasure to play for Wigan and their fans.”

The Wigan Way

Richards admits the much discussed “culture” at Wigan was not good when he arrived at the club in 2006. It was only Michael Maguire and Shaun Wane who brought about much-needed change.

“When I first got to Wigan the culture wasn’t great,” he admitted.

“But that Wigan way that was successful for us, was everyone turning up knowing that the bloke next to them was going to do their job and that creates a sense of trust in everyone.

“You could rely on everyone in good times and bad times, train tough and see rewards in the game. I definitely saw that culture change from when I arrived in 2006 to when Madge (Maguire) and Wane took over in 2009-10 when we started to be successful. You know when it is not there because you find it hard to get wins in close games.”

Pat Richards backing Matt Peet to deliver further success

Richards believes that current boss Peet can build on this year’s Challenge Cup success; and drive the club forward further next season.

“Matty Peet is a young Shaun Wane,” Richards said. “He absolutely loves the town, loves the young guys and that culture of Wigan.

“If you get everyone wanting to play for you then you are going to have 17 committed players. They just have the right feel about their side and will learn a lot of lessons for next year.”

PODCAST: Pat Richards reflects on career, representing Ireland and life after league

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