Matt Peet explains Wigan Warriors’ focus as Super League's top-two race gathers pace

Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet believes securing a top-two finish in Super League provides an ‘important advantage’ in the race for Old Trafford but insists his side remains focused on taking each week as it comes.

The Warriors currently sit third in the Super League table with seven rounds of the regular season remaining, level on points with second-placed Wakefield Trinity but narrowly behind on points difference.

A top-two finish guarantees a home semi-final in the play-offs, leaving clubs just 80 minutes away from the Grand Final.

Peet acknowledged the importance of earning that advantage but stressed it is not something his players are dwelling on at this stage of the year.

“I certainly think it’s an advantage, I think history proves that,” Peet said.

“To get a home semi-final is a fitting prize for finishing in the top two. It’s not something we talk about daily, but it’s obviously something everyone is aware of.

“The best path to that, I suppose, is just trying to get better on the training field, be better than you was the previous week and it tends to take care of itself, but if you’re asking me if it’s an important advantage come the end of the year, it certainly is – the week off and to play a home semi-final, I think every Super League club would fancy themselves in that position.”

Despite the battle with Wakefield and league leaders Leeds Rhinos at the top of the ladder, Peet insists Wigan will not allow themselves to look too far ahead.

“I think any coach will tell you the same, it’s boring, but it’s week by week and to look beyond any fixtures would be foolish,” he added.

Wigan head into the closing stages of the regular season in strong form, having won 12 of their last 13 matches in all competitions, including lifting the Challenge Cup at Wembley in May.

However, Peet believes there is still room for improvement despite the impressive run.

“It’s difficult to talk broadly like that,” he added. “I just think each week we look at it, there are things we do well and things we want to do a little bit better.

“We’re well aware every week that if you miss the jump in terms of the basics of the game, if you turn the ball over and give penalties away, then you can come unstuck, so we’re just building, I think.”

Next up for the Warriors is a trip across the borough to face Leigh Leopards on Friday evening.