How Zach Eckersley prepared for dream appearance at Wembley with Wigan Warriors – Total Rugby League

By KEITH McGHIE

JUST over a week ago, the last thought on Wigan youngster Zach Eckersley’s mind was that he would be playing in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.

But then, when regular center Adam Keighran was suspended for three matches following his red card in the league game at Warrington, the possibility suddenly arose of Eckersley playing on a domestic stage and scoring Wigan’s first try in their win with 18-8.

“It was a bit surreal because when I started the year the last thing I expected was to play in this game,” Eckersley, 20, told League Express.

“Everything happens for a reason and I feel really bad for Adam.

“But credit to him – he’s helped me with everything I’ve done this week.

“Actually, Matty (Peet, coach) and all the guys rallied around me and I loved every minute of it.

“Matty called me on Monday night after all the banning stuff came out.

“He told me I was going to play and from then on I was so excited but also nervous, which is understandable.

“It’s only my fifth appearance and first in the Challenge Cup.”

And when he scored his try, his nerves began to disappear and he credits Waterhead, his junior club in Oldham, for his success.

“When the game started I got involved and (after the try) when the fans roared I didn’t know how to feel, then it came up as a try and I was just buzzed.

“There was always going to be a guaranteed winner from Waterhead because Josh (Thewlis) was on the other side and we both came from there.

“It’s a great club – it’s amazing how many players have come from there. Thanks to all the coaches who helped me through when I was a kid.

“I’m from Springhead – Saddleworth – and Kev (Sinfield) is from there so it was a testament to Rob – Kev’s best mate and a great player.

“Obviously everyone dreams of scoring a try at Wembley so it’s a dream come true and I can’t wait to celebrate with the boys.

“I spoke at half-time when we were ten points up, saying if they don’t score then we win the game and just take it out of there.

“The club looked after me and helped pick out tickets for the game – I’ve got a big family and I think there were 17 here at the end.”

First published in League Express Newspaper Issue 3434 (10 June 2024)

Click here to buy a digital edition of League Express.

Click here to buy an online edition of League Express via pocketmags.com.

Click here to listen to our new League Express podcast.

League Express is widely available from local newsagents across the North of England.