Ethan Havard absence explained as Wigan Warriors boss airs classy words on Liam Marshall
Ethan Havard missed Wigan Warriors’ pre-season victory over Hull FC due to illness, head coach Matt Peet has confirmed.
The Warriors signed off their warm-up schedule with a 22-18 win against fellow Super League opposition in Liam Marshall’s testimonial match, played in front of a 4,500-strong crowd at the Brick Community Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
England international Havard had been named in Peet’s 26-man squad announced on Friday, but was forced to withdraw late after falling ill in the build-up to the game.
“He was set to play, and then he got tonsillitis on Friday, so we decided not to risk him,” Peet said.
Peet also confirmed that Brad O’Neill will be available for Sunday’s Challenge Cup third-round tie against Rochdale Hornets, having completed the two-match suspension he received following last year’s Grand Final. The hooker served the ban during the club’s pre-season friendlies against North Wales Crusaders and Hull FC.
Meanwhile, Peet paid warm tribute to testimonial man Marshall, who is marking 10 professional seasons with his hometown club in 2026.
“We’re just really proud of him,” Peet said. “I know his family are very proud too, and rightly so. He’s a credit to the club, a credit to the town and a credit to his family.
“The way he conducts himself, the time he makes for people, the way he trains every day and the life he lives with his family – he does everything right. He’s also very funny, which is endearing and can lift any room. I’ve known him a long time, and it’s a privilege to work with him.
“He’s loveably annoying! He brings energy, and you need people like that when you’re together day in, day out. He’s got a great balance about him – and he can sing as well!”
Elsewhere, homegrown prop Ollie Partington made his first appearance in cherry and white since returning to the club last month on a five-year deal from Catalans Dragons.
“I think Ollie is proud wherever he plays, but particularly proud when it’s for Wigan,” Peet added. “He’s local, he’s proud, and he was outstanding today.”
Next up for the Warriors is a trip to the Crown Oil Arena to face Championship side Rochdale Hornets in the third round of the Challenge Cup on Sunday, February 8.