Wigan close in on top three after “best performance of the year”

Wigan are now just two points behind third place Hull after thumping Hull KR 52-10.

Winger Liam Marshall grabbed a hat-trick of tries, while back-rower Liam Farrell added a brace with Zak Hardaker, George Williams, Oliver Gildart and Joe Burgess all crossing.

After an indifferent start to the season, the Warriors have now racked up five straight wins since their Magic Weekend defeat to Warrington.

Coach Adrian Lam said: “I think that was our best performance of the year so far, without a doubt.

“Considering there was no Sean O’Loughlin, Ben Flower or Joe Greenwood and not to mention the others who are missing, we have some guys out in the middle who are enjoying their rugby and they are playing for each other.

“We have a happy dressing room. The last two-and-a-half months have been really positive and enjoyable. I still can’t believe we are fourth.

“I think it’s great for the game that there are upsets at the moment and there are so many teams in a position to potentially go down and actually still make the five.

“I think it’s great for the game, it’s not a negative point in any sense and it gives everyone an opportunity to turn up on the day and win.”

They travel to face runaway league leaders St Helens in an eye-catching derby on Friday, which won’t be televised by Sky Sports for the first time in more than two decades.