Matt Peet outlines next steps for Wigan Warriors youngster George Marsden after impressive debut
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet says youngster George Marsden will continue balancing academy rugby and college commitments following his impressive first-team debut.
The 17-year-old halfback featured in Saturday’s 38-14 victory over Bradford Bulls after injuries and suspension ruled out first-choice halfbacks Bevan French and Harry Smith respectively.
Marsden partnered fellow homegrown talent Jack Farrimond in the halves, with the pair becoming Wigan’s youngest halfback pairing since Shaun Edwards and Mike Ford in 1985.
Despite the attention around his debut, Peet says Marsden has remained grounded following his breakthrough appearance.
“He’s never looked like he’s been too high on it, to be honest,” Peet told Wigan Today. “He’s quite a placid-level kid, so he’s been good.”
Marsden remains part of Wigan’s academy set-up and is also studying at St John Rigby College while continuing to feature for the academy and reserves this season.
Peet confirmed the teenager had returned to the first-team environment this week for the team review, although the club will carefully manage his workload around his education commitments and upcoming exams.
“We had him in today for his review with the first-team,” Peet added.
“We’ll have to take it day by day with George, because he has still got his college and his exams to finish off, but the more he’s with us, the better now.”
The Warriors boss also praised the contributions of debutant duo Marsden, Josh Cartwright and Noah Hodkinson following his review of the Bradford victory.
“George and Josh were a big part of it and Noah as well, so it was a great day for those three,” Peet said.
“There were lessons in there, particularly the second half and the start to the second half, but all things considered, I thought it was a positive step.”
Peet also shared praise for Jake Wardle, who played his first full game at centre since returning from an MCL injury which had sidelined him since Round One.
“He’s a good player,” Peet said. “It’s been good to have him back after missing him since Round One.
“Every time you can welcome someone quality back, you are going to be a better team for it.”
With Smith having completed serving his three-match suspension, Marsden is expected to play for the reserves against Hull FC at Robin Park Arena on Sunday afternoon.