Wigan Warriors boss hails ‘intelligent’ George Marsden after classy Paris display as squad depth thickens

Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet believes teenager George Marsden has all the attributes needed to succeed at the highest level after another eye-catching display in Saturday’s 40-16 win over Catalans Dragons in Paris.

The 17-year-old halfback produced an impressive performance at the Stade Jean-Bouin, scoring his first senior try for the Warriors and causing problems for the Dragons throughout the evening.

Marsden’s latest outing was just the third first-team appearance of his career, having made his debut against Bradford Bulls last month. The former Golborne Parkside junior is still studying at St John Rigby College while balancing his rugby commitments with Wigan’s academy and reserve sides.

His rapid rise has been one of the success stories of Wigan’s season, and Peet admitted he has been hugely impressed by the youngster’s development.

“I’ve been so impressed with George since working with him more regularly,” said Peet.

“He’s a very intelligent rugby player. He buys into what his coaches and teammates are asking from him, and he’s got the skill set and the temperament to play at this level, for sure.”

Marsden’s first-team opportunities have come during a period where Wigan have had to contend with a number of injuries and suspensions. However, Peet believes that adversity has ultimately strengthened his squad by accelerating the development of several young players.

Jack Farrimond has become a regular starter in recent months and was named Lance Todd Trophy winner in last weekend’s Challenge Cup final victory over Hull KR. Noah Hodkinson has also impressed during an extended run in the side, while Taylor Kerr has continued to gain valuable first-team experience.

Peet feels those youngsters have emerged stronger from being thrust into senior rugby.

“We went through a little bit of adversity earlier in the season, but through that period, we’ve managed to develop some of our youngsters, and our squad looks a lot thicker for it,” he said.

“George, Jack, Noah, Taylor… Our squad all of a sudden looks like it’s got a bit of depth to it, and we’re better for the lessons learned during that period.”

While Marsden’s display caught the eye in Paris, Peet also shared praise for the hard-working Ollie Partington after another influential contribution in the middle of the field.

The 27-year-old returned to his hometown club ahead of the 2026 campaign after spells with Salford and Catalans, and has quickly established himself as a key figure in Wigan’s pack.

Partington played a major role in the Warriors’ Challenge Cup final triumph at Wembley last weekend and followed that up with another workmanlike performance against his former club in Paris.

Peet believes Partington’s professionalism away from the field is being reflected in his performances on it.

“I think everything he’s doing, preparing himself well, he’s enjoying his rugby,” said the Warriors boss.

“What you are seeing on the field - him and Kaide (Ellis) work hard off the field - and it’s definitely transferred into our performances and making our middle unit a tough one and a skilful one, so I like the balance of us in the middle at the moment.”