Wigan Warriors marked Liam Marshall’s testimonial year in fitting fashion as they claimed a confidence-boosting pre-season victory over Hull FC, combining celebration with sharp on-field application. On a night that honoured one of the club’s most consistent performers, the Warriors delivered a performance that underlined both their depth and their growing cohesion ahead of the new Super League campaign.
The match was framed as much by emotion as by preparation. Marshall, a product of Wigan’s academy and a player who has become synonymous with the club’s modern era, was given a warm reception from the stands. His testimonial year recognises years of service, professionalism, and match-winning moments in cherry and white, and the occasion clearly resonated with teammates eager to mark it with a win.
From the opening exchanges, Wigan set the tone with aggressive line speed and tidy ball movement. While the pre-season tag often brings a degree of caution, there was nothing tentative about the Warriors’ intent. Their forwards laid a solid platform early, winning the ruck and allowing the halves to dictate tempo. Hull FC, also using the fixture to assess combinations and fitness, showed flashes of promise but struggled to match Wigan’s early intensity.
Wigan’s first-half control was reflected on the scoreboard, as patience in attack eventually paid dividends. Quick hands out wide and smart support play through the middle created openings that were clinically exploited. Marshall himself was involved in several dangerous passages, his work rate and positional awareness reminding supporters why he remains such a valuable asset. Though the result mattered less than performance, the Warriors’ efficiency stood out.
Hull FC responded after the break with renewed purpose, tightening their defence and enjoying longer spells of possession. Their forwards began to punch holes closer to the ruck, forcing Wigan to dig in defensively. For a period, the contest became more even, with both sides trading territory and testing their defensive systems. Hull managed to convert pressure into points, ensuring the game remained competitive and worthwhile as a pre-season exercise.
However, Wigan’s composure ultimately told. Rotating their squad without losing structure, they maintained discipline and finished stronger. Young players given opportunities rose to the occasion, while senior figures provided calm direction. The Warriors’ ability to manage the latter stages, even with changes on the field, will please the coaching staff as the competitive season approaches.
Beyond the result, the night belonged to Liam Marshall. His journey from academy graduate to first-team regular and England international has been built on resilience and consistency. Celebrating his testimonial with a victory felt symbolic of the standards he represents—commitment, humility, and a relentless desire to improve.
As pre-season hit-outs go, this was an ideal outing for Wigan Warriors. They honoured a club servant, sharpened combinations, and left the field with momentum. For Hull FC, there were lessons and positives to take despite the defeat. For Wigan, the message was clear: preparation is progressing well, and they are ready to carry both form and feeling into the challenges that lie ahead.
Be the first to comment