Matt Peet admitted guiding Wigan Warriors to Betfred Challenge Cup glory in his first season as head coach had yet to sink in as they celebrated a 16-14 win over Huddersfield Giants at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Liam Marshall's 77th-minute try saw the Warriors snatch victory from the jaws of defeat and enabled them lift the famous old trophy for a record 20th time, as well as denying the Giants their first success in this competition since 1953.
Peet, the youngest head coach in the Betfred Super League at 38, now has a first major trophy barely four months into his maiden season in the top job in the bag. But while he was delighted to give the supporters of his hometown club something to cheer, he was still yet to appreciate it himself.
"I know it's good, I know it's positive, but it certainly hasn't sunk in," Peet said. "I'm looking forward to it sinking in, I'm looking forward to the town, families, players and staff celebrating and enjoying the moment because they've worked very, very hard.
"I can sit here really proud just knowing people are happy and we've played a part in helping them have a great weekend.
"Them creating memories as supporters, families and friends, people watching on TV, people who work for the club who won't have got down - I can name so many people who've contributed in their own separate way and brought energy to that performance.
"I can sit anywhere tonight and be happy just thinking about that."
Wigan had trailed 10-6 at half-time in the final, but Jai Field's try three minutes into the second half put them in front. However, Jermaine McGillvary's unconverted try and some immense defence looked to have been enough to get Huddersfield over the line.
That was until Harry Smith showed great
Read more on msn.com
msn.com