DOM AND Manfredi double gives coach Wane the perfect send-off
Gareth Walker
DOM MANFREDI’S went over for a double to give Shaun Wane the fairytale finish he craved as Wigan lifted the third Super League title of their coach’s tenure.
Wane’s 30-year association with his hometown club now ends as he prepares to join Scotland RU as a consultant.
And he leaves having again lifted rugby league’s biggest prize. An emotional Wane said: “I’m not bothered about the performance I just wanted the win. It was the perfect way to finish and I’ve got so much respect for the players.
“I’m a Wigan lad, born and bred, so it’s just an outstanding feeling.”
Match-winner Manfredi said: “I’m lost for words, I can’t believe it. It’s unbelievable, full credit to the boys, all I had to do was put the ball down.
“We knew we had to stick in there and there would be an opportunity like that.
“The defence was outstanding, if you don’t have that you have no chance.” Warrington coach Steve Price said: “Credit to Wigan, their defence was outstanding.
“We could have executed better but I’m super proud of the effort.”
In many ways, Manfredi’s performance typified Wane’s whole approach – brave and passionate above and beyond the call of duty.
Tackle
The winger, playing only his fifth game back in the side after two years out through horror injuries, sustained a nasty cut to his eyelid in making a try-saving tackle on Tom