Wigan Warriors V St Helens preview: Here is everything you need to know ahead of tonight's derby game

The two teams currently sit first and second in the Super League table, with Kristian Woolf’s side leading by six points.

A victory this evening would see Saints lift the League Leaders shield, while Wigan are looking to secure a home tie and a week off in the play-offs.

The Opposition:

St Helens head into this game off the back of three consecutive wins.

The most recent one was a 38-12 victory over Hull KR, while the week before that they overcame Hull FC 60-6.

Their last defeat came at the end of July, as they were beaten 44-12 away to Salford Red Devils.

That result was only their fourth Super League loss this season, with the others coming against Toulouse, Castleford Tigers and Catalans Dragons.

The Coach:

Kristian Woolf has done a good job since arriving at the Totally Wicked Stadium in 2020.

Prior to taking the role, his previous experience came in the NRL, where he acted as an assistant coach at clubs such as Newcastle Knights, as well as leading the Tongan national team.

With St Helens, he has won two Super League Grand Finals and a Challenge Cup, continuing the good work done by Justin Holbrook before him.

Key Men:

Tommy Makinson is St Helens’ leading try-scorer this season, with 21 under his belt.

Meanwhile, Jack Welsby has been one of their main sources of creativity, producing 25 assists.

Previous Meetings:

The two teams have already met on three occasions this year, with the first coming in Good Friday at the Totally Wicked Stadium.

Despite taking the lead through Jai Field, the Warriors were beaten 22-4, with the home side enjoying a dominant second half.

The second game between the sides came at Elland Road in the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup.

Despite going into the break with the lead, Wigan needed to come from behind in the second half to claim the victory, as Liam Marshall went over for the winner.

The most recent meeting was at the Magic Weekend in Newcastle.

St Helens scored a late winner in a tight game at St James’ Park, with a French brace and one from John Bateman not enough for Wigan.

Final Thoughts:

St Helens remain the benchmark in Super League, but Wigan have done an excellent job at closing the gap.

Friday is set to a tight game, but one the Warriors can edge if they produce a strong performance.