Liam Farrell warns Wigan Warriors have proven nothing if they fall short on big stage

Liam Farrell has paid tribute to boss Matty Peet for transforming the culture of Wigan Warriors – but accepts they face the acid test of their resurgence this weekend. Eyebrows were raised at the end of last season when Wigan parted company with Adrian Lam and announced a new coaching team headed up by rookie Peet.

He was assisted by club icon Sean O’Loughlin and Warrington Wolves legend Lee Briers, with former Warriors boss Shaun Wane re-joining in a part-time role. As Wigan bid to topple hated rivals St Helens in Saturday’s Challenge Cup semi-final at Elland Road, Farrell admitted the environment at the club has improved markedly this season.

The long-serving second-rower told Rugby League Live: “A lot of people have spoken about it and it definitely has. The lads care about what we’re doing now and I think a lot of that is down to Matty and the coaching staff.

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“He knows what the club expects from the players and staff – and he knows what the fans want as well. He’s a great man for the job and the lads have just bought into what he expects.”

Farrell said the Warriors – who lie joint top of Super League with Saints – have benefited from playing a more expansive game this term.

“I think the coaching staff in Lee Briers and Sean O’Loughlin have also helped a lot in terms of the attacking style of rugby,” he explained. There is a structure but also a freedom to move and play the ball, so I think Wigan fans should be excited about what we’ve shown so far.

“We’ve been exciting to watch at times and we’re just trying to improve week in and week out. Jai Field has been unbelievable for us but, when you add Bevan French into the