The better side lost says Huddersfield boss Ian Watson

Huddersfield head coach Ian Watson believes the better side lost the Challenge Cup final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Liam Marshall scored in the dying minutes to give Matt Peet his first major trophy in his debut year in charge of the club. 

The Giants had led 10-6 at half-time thanks to tries from Ricky Leutele and Chris McQueen. Harry Smith scoring for Wigan.

Jai Field hit back early in the second 40, but Huddersfield edged back into the lead on the hour mark thanks to one-man club Jermaine McGillvary. 

However, Marshall’s 76th minute try handed Ian Watson his third defeat in a major final. 

Huddersfield 14-16 Wigan: Matt Peet lands first trophy as Warriors coach

Ian Watson believes better side lost

“The boys put in an enormous shift,” Watson said during his post-match press conference.

“I thought we were outstanding as a group. I think we were the best team for large parts of the game. We’ve just not got what we deserved probably today.”

When asked if he thought the best team lost, Watson responded: “I do. And that’s what hurts. It hurts because of how much effort they’ve put in and it’s come down to one little moment in the game where they’ve caught us.”

Chris Hill injury

Huddersfield lost influential prop Chris Hill on 20 minutes due to injury. They were also without Theo Fages, who was ruled out ahead of the match.

“People with that level of experience are massive in these kind of games. 

“I thought Chris Hill was outstanding. To lose him was a big, big blow. 

“We think it’s his calf. We’ll have to send him for a scan, so we’re not sure how long it will be.”

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