Good Friday Derby: Coaches Peet and Rowley Ready for St Helens vs Wigan
The Good Friday clash between St Helens and Wigan returns as one of Super League’s fiercest fixtures. Fans of both clubs deliver a simple demand each year: beat the neighbours on that day.
Coaches and local stakes
Paul Rowley and Matt Peet both acknowledge the fixture’s importance. Coaches Peet and Rowley speak regularly about the pride and pressure that accompany the derby.
Rowley is preparing for his seventh Super League match leading St Helens. Peet is in his fifth season managing Wigan, and he is a Wigan native.
History and homegrown talent
The rivalry has produced memorable moments and iconic players. Names such as Andy Farrell, Paul Sculthorpe, Sean Long, Sean O’Loughlin, Liam Farrell, Paul Wellens and Sam Tomkins are part of derby folklore.
Both clubs emphasise homegrown development. Supporters expect local players to step up in this high-profile meeting.
Current form and team news
Saints arrive with a lengthy injury list. Double-digit absences include Jack Welsby, Matty Lees and Alex Walmsley.
St Helens suffered a heavy 52-10 defeat to Hull KR in their previous outing. Rowley admits the result prompted a frank assessment of attitudes and performance.
Wigan had been unbeaten earlier in the season. They then lost unexpectedly to Huddersfield Giants in the same round Saints were defeated.
Youth opportunities
Both coaches plan to use young players in the derby. Rowley says youngsters will gain valuable experience in a major fixture.
Peet highlighted emerging talent. Noah Hodkinson, aged 20, could make only his third Super League start.
Peet noted a pattern of academy stars progressing into senior roles. He mentioned past breakthrough names and current youngsters like Harry Robertson, Owen Dagnall and Jack Farrimond.
Broadcast and season calendar
Sky Sports will again show every Super League game live this year. Two matches per round will be exclusive, with the remaining fixtures on Sky Sports+.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Rivals Round | April 3–5 |
| Super League in Paris (Catalans v Wigan) | June 6 |
| Magic Weekend | July 4–5 |
| Rivals Round (reversed) | July 23–26 |
| Elimination Play-offs | September 19–20 |
| Play-off semi-finals | September 26–27 |
| Grand Final (Old Trafford) | October 3 |
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments ahead of the Good Friday Derby. Expect selection updates and injury news as teams finalise squads.
