Proud Wiganer Matty Peet is on the cusp of glory in his first season as head coach of his hometown club.
But any Challenge Cup success savoured on Saturday will be a family affair - and he insists no different to taking charge of an Under 13s contest. Peet, 38, never played professionally but is an English literature graduate. It’s no wonder his team-talks have helped inspire his side to the final against Huddersfield at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
And just a few months after his shock appointment - most of his career’s been spent coaching Wigan’s scholarship and academy - he’s helped bring back flair and style. His daughters Lily, seven, and Winnie, four, joined him in the victorious semi-final press conference and are getting used to him being recognised around the rugby league-mad town. Cade Cust is their favourite player - “they’ve adopted him” - after the Australian stand-off had his Christmas dinner in the Peet household.
