For St Helens head coach Paul Rowley and Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet there has been one simple message delivered to them by fans: Beat ‘that lot’ on Good Friday.
The grudge match between two Super League giants on the same day every year always makes for tasty viewing, iconic names such as Andy Farrell, Paul Sculthorpe, Sean Long, Sean O’Loughlin, Liam Farrell, Paul Wellens and Sam Tomkins all having starring roles over the years in what is always a derby match to remember.
It is a contest in which homegrown talent is at the forefront, with the fans at fever pitch as their rivals from just over the hill descend on their town.
That is why there is a simple message from the fans to their teams. Of course, they want to win trophies. Of course, they would love to beat everyone.
But, if you are going to win one match all season, win this one.
Rowley Ready for First Good Friday Derby
Rowley is heading into just his seventh Super League match in charge of Saints but knew from his first day that this clash was one to circle in the calendar. He was made aware as soon as his name was signed on the dotted lin.
“I am obviously looking forward to it,” Rowley said. “I think joining St Helens, it became clear immediately that this meant everything to the public.
“I am sure the day I signed, I think the walking out of the stadium I bumped into a couple of fans. You can imagine the first comments were ‘just whatever you do, make sure you win the game against Wigan’.
“So I understand the importance of it to our club, to the community. It is exciting because we’ve got two clubs with great respect for one another but it’s safe to say there’s a healthy rivalry and obviously the full house is going to add all the ingredients.”
Peet Familiar With Derby Expectations
This is Peet’s fifth season in charge of the Warriors and as a Wigan native, he is all too aware of what is expected from his side on Friday afternoon.
“I have had similar messages ever since I stepped into the role, I think. Both of us are from the area, you have seen enough of these games over the years, enjoyed them as spectators,” Peet said.
“Then to be involved at the coalface, there is excitement and it is a privilege to be involved with them.
“As Paul (Rowley) mentioned, I think the rivalry is 100 per cent born out of respect because you know that the other team do a great job on the field, off the field. You know that they’re supported by genuinely good
Watch St Helens take on Wigan Warriors in the Good Friday derby live on Sky Sports from 2.30pm, with kick-off at 3pm, on April 4.