Matt Peet expects a ‘challenging’ encounter for Hull FC when Wigan Warriors name the squad

Matt Peet expects Hull FC’s young players to give his champions Wigan Warriors a run on Saturday afternoon. The two sides meet for the first time this season at the MKM Stadium, with Peet’s outfit going into the clash four points clear at the top of the Super League table.

Also winning the World Club Challenge against Penrith Panthers in February, Wigan, who currently hold all four trophies on offer after their League Leaders Shield and Challenge Cup triumphs, are a firm test for an improved Hull side. However, Peet is keeping his own troops on guard, with the head coach predicting a stern challenge in East Yorkshire.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Peet said: “This is always a challenging away game so we know we are up for a game. They have introduced some good young players and their games are becoming more competitive and closer. They will continue to build on it.

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“We have to improve and raise our standards, which is always the case. We talk a lot about what we do well and what we can do more of, as well as what we need to do to be better. It’s as simple as that.”

Wigan will be without the likes of Bevan French and Jai Field, not to mention Willie Isa, as they head down the M62. They beat St Helens in last week’s derby, with Peet in upbeat mood after the 16-12 triumph, with the manager able to call on the likes of Adam Keighran, who saw his suspension overturned earlier in the week.

England internationals Jake Wardle, Harry Smith, Brad O’Neil, Luke Thompson and Tyler Dupree are all included in their squad alongside the latest batch of rising young talent.

“We’re in good shape,” added Pete. “The usual bumps and bruises you can expect from this type of game don’t seem like a concern, so we’re good.”

Wigan squad: 2. Abbas Miski, 3. Adam Keighran 4. Jake Wardle, 5. Liam Marshall, 7. Harry Smith, 8. Ethan Havard, 9. Brad O’Neil, 10. Liam Bryne, 12. Liam Farrell, 13. Kaide Ellis , 15. Patrick Mago, 16. Luke Thompson, 19. Tyler Dupree, 20. Harvie Hill, 21. Junior Nsemba, 22. Sam Walters, 23. Ryan Hampshire, 26. Zack Eckersley, 28. Jacob Douglas, 30. Jack Farrimond , 36. Taylor Kerr

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