Wigan Warriors boss Matt Peet on sub selection, 'thriving' Brad O'Neill and Sam Eseh admission
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet has shed light on his recent bench selections while praising the form and endurance of Brad O’Neill, who he says is ‘thriving’ in an 80-minute role at hooker.
Peet has opted to include young fullback Noah Hodkinson among his interchange options in recent fixtures against St Helens and Wakefield Trinity. However, Hodkinson has remained unused in both matches, with key man O’Neill playing the full 80 minutes.
O’Neill has risen to the challenge impressively. In Wigan’s 26-22 Challenge Cup quarter-final victory over Wakefield, O’Neill delivered a tireless performance, racking up 51 tackles. He also produced a decisive moment late on, chasing back to intercept a Wakefield break and regain possession at a crucial stage that helped his side hold on for the win.
Speaking after the win at the DIY Kitchens Stadium, Peet provided insight into his thought process regarding his recent sub selection, with Hodkinson brought in as cover for the backline.
“Obviously, at the moment, we’re carrying Noah because we don’t have many players who can cover the backline for us,” Peet said.
“There are times you’d like to be able to spell Brad, but because we’re carrying Noah as cover, we don’t have that luxury – and Brad is thriving in it.
“When he’s playing like that, you don’t want to bring him off. The desire he brings to us is outstanding. Brad and Ollie (Partington), through the middle, both played with plenty of spirit.”
Elsewhere, Sam Eseh made his second start for Wigan in the absence of Ethan Havard, who is currently progressing through concussion protocols.
Eseh added physicality during his spells in the middle, bringing power in his carries. Peet admitted he was disappointed not to use Eseh from the bench in the Good Friday defeat to St Helens, but believes the youngster’s development is trending in the right direction.
“I thought he did well,” Peet added. “I was disappointed I didn’t use him last week – sometimes it’s just the flow of the game.
“He was impactful at the start, and when he came on again, he really put himself about. He’s only going to get better and better for us.”
Next up for the Warriors is a clash with Castleford Tigers at the Brick Community Stadium on Sunday, April 19 – 3pm kick-off.