Matt Peet praises Wigan Warriors' tougher defence after ending leaky period by keeping Salford Red Devils pointless

Matt Peet praised his side's improved defence after Wigan Warriors shut out Salford Red Devils. The Warriors advanced to the Challenge Cup quarter-final with a 20-0 victory over the Reds, a win that was their sixth win in seven games under Peet since his appointment as head coach.

Peet had been critical of his side's defence after leaking points in their last three games. But the Warriors chief was satisfied with his side's improved defensive aspects in the game.

"We're delighted," he told Premier Sports. "We'd have taken a one-point win before the game so to win with a bit of space is very satisfying.

Highlights as Wigan Warriors cruise into Challenge Cup quarter-final with win over Salford Red Devils

"I am happy, it's not something with got to grips with (defending) so far. Defensively I don't think we've been where we want to be, particularly last week against Castleford. Tonight I think you could tell our concentration was at the next level."

John Bateman was named man of the match in a performance that caught the eye of the Wigan boss.

"I think for teams to win they've got to get their best players playing well. John, Liam (Farrell) and Zak (Hardaker) and all these players we've got, that's my job, to get them playing well. He's been defending really well and you're seeing signs of his hard work paying off. He's got these plays and although they're not always going to plan I think you can see him building his game."