Wigan Warriors starlet George Marsden opens up on Jack Farrimond partnership - ‘He gives me confidence’

George Marsden has hailed the influence of fellow youngster Jack Farrimond after the pair guided Wigan Warriors to a 40-16 victory over Catalans Dragons in Paris.

The 17-year-old halfback admitted Farrimond’s presence alongside him in the halves made him feel immediately at ease as Wigan’s youngest halfback pairing since Shaun Edwards and Mike Ford in 1985 delivered another impressive display together.

Marsden came into the side in place of suspended Harry Smith, while 20-year-old Farrimond retained his spot after a run of strong performances during Bevan French’s lengthy injury absence.

The duo combined well throughout the Warriors’ win at the Stade Jean-Bouin on Saturday, with both players scoring a try and registering an assist as Matt Peet’s side backed up their Challenge Cup final triumph with another convincing victory.

Reflecting on the growing partnership, which is still in its infancy, Marsden revealed that Farrimond’s experience and communication helped settle any nerves.

“He’s only 20 himself, but you wouldn’t think it when you’re playing with him,” Marsden smiled when speaking to Wigan Today.

“I looked to the side of me and saw him there, and I felt pretty comfortable.

“He definitely makes things easier for me - he’s good with his chat, and he gives me a lot of confidence just to go and play my own game.”

Marsden and Farrimond have spent time together in the reserves setup, and their contrasting styles appeared to complement each other in the French capital.

While Marsden took on much of the organisational responsibility, Farrimond was able to play with the freedom that has become a feature of his game during his breakthrough season.

Marsden believes the balance between the two halves has been key to their success.

“We work well together,” he said.

“Lockers (Sean O’Loughlin) and Matty (Peet) said they brought me in for my chat, and then Jack can just go and do what he does best, which is just playing off the cuff and eyes up, and it’s managed to work.”

Both players were among Wigan’s standout performers as the Warriors raced into a commanding first-half lead before seeing off any hopes of a Catalans comeback.

Marsden crossed for his first senior try in memorable fashion, while Farrimond also got on the scoresheet with a clever individual effort as Wigan continued their strong recent run of form.

However, the young halfback was quick to point to the platform laid by Wigan’s forward pack, who dominated large periods of the contest.

“They make things a lot easier for us,” Marsden said. “When your forwards are on the front foot, we just play on the back of it.

“It’s really hard to play off a pack that’s getting beaten, but when your forwards are as good as ours, and you’re on the front foot for the majority of the game, it definitely makes it easier for us men in the backs.”

Next up for the Warriors is a trip to the DIY Kitchens Stadium to face Wakefield Trinity on Friday night, 8pm kick-off.