Wigan faced Orrell at Orrell St James this weekend in the first round of pre-season friendlies. Both sides were buoyed with new signings and the game was expected to be a test of fitness and structures as they prepare for the new season.

Defence was key in the early exchanges as both sides showed they were well drilled. 20 minutes in and it was Orrell who making the early headway only to be denied 5 metres out when Wigan wing, Adam Stansbie, intercepted and took the ball the length of the pitch to score. Stansbie converted his own try.

It was a similar tale just minutes later, this time on the opposite wing. Speedy winger Mikey Bristow intercepting on his own 22 metre line before outpacing the Orrell backs and taking the ball over.

The game settled into a stalemate for the rest of the half until the Wigan stand off, Sam Gee, made a break through the Orrell defence before putting Connor Matthews through into space. Valiant Orrell defence managed to stop Matthews just before crossing the line but Ratchford was in close support and managed to take the ball over for a Wigan score. Stansbie added the conversion to take the score to 19-0 at half time.

Orrell regrouped and reorganised at the break whilst Wigan also rang the changes. Orrell drew first blood in the second half, scoring from close in after a sustained period of possession. Wigan struck back almost immediately, Brad Makinson making a break down the right wing before putting his brother, Sam Makinson, through into space to go over for the score. Matthews added the conversion. 26-7

Orrell once again put pressure on the Wigan line, showing their ability to keep the game tight and retain possession. After a number of phases Orrell were once again over the line and took the score to 26-14.

With 10 minutes left it was clear that Wigan’s fitness was a level below Orrell and the black and amber team smelt blood. 3 tries in the last 10 minutes gave Orrell a 26-34 win in a hard fought but well spirited derby game.

Wigan wish Orrell all the best for the coming season and look forward to welcoming them back to Douglas Valley for a mid-season friendly later in the year.