The battle of the two unbeaten sides from week one saw Wigan’s Declan Roberts grab an astonishing personal haul of 58 points in 55 minutes, from five tries and a perfect 19 goals, as the Warriors defeated Warrington 148-18 at John Moores University.
The cherry and whites got off to a blistering start, leading 78-12 at the break and, in all, posted 26 tries. England international Adam Rigby - with a quickfire first half hat trick to set the tone - and Mark Williams helped themselves to four tries and a goal each, Matt Wooloff with three touchdowns, and all ten Warriors players posting points.
Wigan head coach Phil Roberts commented: “I was really pleased with the way our team played, a good mix of eyes-up rugby and structure. We were able to achieve plenty of rotation and game time for some less experienced players.”
Toby Burton Carter continued his fine form from the week before for the Wolves with a try treble, Warrington head coach Dave Abel noting: “They started quickly, continued to keep their foot on the gas and never let up. We weren’t at the races today but our effort levels were high and we didn’t give up.”
It was much closer at Medway, where London Roosters claimed their inaugural win, 54-49 over North Wales Crusaders. Stewart Williams posted five tries for the visitors, who led 31-24 at half time and seemed to be in control, ahead 49-32, at three-quarter time.
But the Roosters showed remarkable resilience to stage a thrilling comeback, Ash Archer with four tries and Lewis King three to go with his three goals.
Roosters Head Coach Tom Coyd said: “That was an outstanding contest where both teams had periods of control and punished errors when they had the chance. I’m pleased with how we found a way to win and didn’t panic.”
Joe Coyd finished with two tries and goals for the Roosters, Jack Linden and Jason Owen their other try scorers. Martin Lane claimed three tries for the Crusaders, Scott Trigg-Turner with a try, six goals and a drop goal for a 17-point tally. Crusaders head coach Steve Jones noted: “Both teams did the game proud in what was a superb advert for the sport.
We’ll build on this and keep working hard for our first win.”
Betfred Wheelchair Super League Round Two Results:
Wigan Warriors 148 Warrington Wolves 18
London Roosters 54 North Wales Crusaders 49
Halifax Panthers v Leeds Rhinos - rearranged for 26 March
