Shaun Wane ‘very proud’ of Wigan fightback at Catalans

Wigan coach Shaun Wane was impressed by the effort shown from his players in their second half comeback against Catalans.

The Dragons led 15-0 at half time and even went 21-0 up in the second half.

However, the final 30 minutes was all Wigan, thanks to an inspirational display from captain Sean O’Loughlin. The Warriors scored 28 unanswered points in 25 second half minutes to pull off an impressive 32-23 win in Perpignan.

Speaking after the game, Wane said: “I’m very, very, very proud.

“We gave ourselves a lot to do but we turned up in the second half with some individual performances and found a way to win. It was a great performance in the second half.

“They started off better than us. We gave silly penalties away and our completion rate was 69%.

“I am the ultimate optimist, especially with this team. It was a shockingly bad half-time, we spoke really honestly with each other and they took it to heart and performed like they did in the second half.

“I am the ultimate optimist so I never, ever think it (the comeback) can’t be done, especially with this bunch, they’ll always turn up. To overcome 23 points is a good effort, I’m really pleased.”

Wane picked out skipper O’Loughlin for praise after the 35-year-old guided Wigan to victory.

He added: “Lockers showed today that he is the best.

“Nobody could do what he did today. All the praise he gets off other players, players who have played in the NRL – they’re all bang on.

“He’s had no help off any coaches, he’s just a great rugby player and a winner. I hope he plays until he’s 45!”

Wane revealed Ben Flower had taken a knock to the head and that George Williams was withdrawn owing to a migraine.

Next up for Wigan is a trip to Emerald Headingley Stadium as they face Leeds Rhinos on Friday, 7:45pm kick-off.