Joel to miss out on Wembley dream

HE SCORED one of the memorable Challenge Cup Final tries when Wigan triumphed over Leeds Rhinos at Wembley in 2011 – but Joel Tomkins is set to miss out on the opportunity to repeat that feat this afternoon.

The eldest Tomkins brother has recovered from injury in time to be included in Shaun Wane’s 19-man squad for the showpiece fixture against cup holders Hull FC, but the Warriors boss confirmed after the final captain’s training session yesterday that Willie Isa will be named in the final 17 at the expense of ex-England rugby union international Joel. Isa was omitted from the Wigan squad that overcame Cronulla Sharks in the World Club Challenge back in February when Wane felt he needed a ‘big bench’, but will have the opportunity to help his side to additional silverware today.

The only other change from last week’s impressive Super League victory over Salford is likely to see Tom Davies return on the wing, taking the place of fellow rookie Liam Marshall.

Both have taken the opportunities handed to them because of injuries this season, with Davies impressing in the right wing spot vacant because of Dom Manfredi’s longterm injury.

“I never thought at the start of the year he’d be walking out at Wembley,” admitted Wane. “All credit to him, he’s taken his chance.” Hull are expected to field the same team that knocked Leeds out in the semifinals, with Lee Radford recalling the big names rested for last week’s defeat to Huddersfield.

Jamie Shaul, Albert Kelly and former Wigan forward Scott Taylor all return for the repeat of the 2013 final.

Wigan triumphed 16-0 in an error-strewn, rain-soaked clash on that occasion.

However, the forecast is for near-perfect conditions at the national stadium for today’s 3pm kick-off.