Wigan Warriors ace making his mark in Super League: ‘He’s becoming a bit of a leader for us’

Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet believes young hooker Brad O’Neill is maturing into a leader following a string of impressive displays.

The 20-year-old has made 35 appearances since making his first team debut in 2021, with 14 of those coming this season.

O’Neill, who helped the Warriors lift the Challenge Cup last year, is getting better with each game he plays, according to his coach Peet.

Speaking after their 26-6 win over Salford on Sunday afternoon, Peet said: “What you are starting to see in the first team is the Brad O’Neill that we’ve seen through his junior career from being 13 or 14 – full of physicality and energy.

“He’s starting to show glimpses with the ball. He’s a lot more capable with the ball than people might realise as well so as his engine develops by playing at this level, you are going to see more and more of that.

“I’m really pleased for him. He’s becoming a bit of a leader for us through there as well so (we) love him to bits.”

Wigan Warriors boss praises Liam Farrell following a vintage display

England international Liam Farrell scored two tries in Wigan’s win over Salford in what was a trademark display from the back-rower.

Speaking after the game, Peet said: “What I like about Liam on that left edge is whatever new players we sign like Jake Wardle or when Harry Smith came in for George Williams, Liam sort of grips that edge and shows them the standard: with and without the ball.

“Sometimes he gets the rewards like a few weeks ago at Hull KR and like today, but I thought you saw Harry (Smith) build his game, Jake Wardle and Liam Marshall – and Liam was kind of in control of that left edge and has been for some years and hopefully he’s got a few more years yet.”

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