Potter makes case for defence

Potter: Delighted with derby win over Wigan

Had we executed our opportunities, certainly in the first half, and maybe got the call from the video ref, it may have been different but you have to give full credit to St Helens. They defend really well

Brian Noble
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St Helens coach Mick Potter admitted his side were forced to "do it the hard way" after battling their way to a 19-12 win at Wigan.

Saints trailed twice in the contest but still managed to come out on top thanks to two tries in the space of three second-half minutes.

As well as giving them local bragging rights, the win for the visitors at the JJB Stadium means they take over at the top of the Super League table.

Potter praised his players for their efforts, particularly in defence, as they handed the Warriors a fourth loss in five home games in 2009.

Tense

"It was very tense," said Potter after enjoying victory in his first derby in charge of Saints.

"It was a close match and I enjoyed the fans chanting. I'm just glad we finished on the right end of the scoreboard.

"The defence was probably the most pleasing aspect. I thought the guys showed some real resilience and belief in holding the other team out.

"We made the game very tough. I thought there was an easy way to do it but we couldn't find it. We had to do it the hard way but they showed the mental toughness to find the energy to do whatever it took."

Defeat was tough on Wigan, who dominated for long periods and also had a first-half try from Gareth Hock ruled out by the video official for a double movement.

Coach Brian Noble felt his side paid the price for not executing their opportunities, though he was quick to acknowledge Saints' efforts in defence.

Disappointed

"The players are very disappointed because they feel they have done enough but it's a salutary lesson in that a champion team keeps fighting," he said.

"They probably had three sets in the second half and scored two tries. We can learn something from that.

"Had we executed our opportunities, certainly in the first half, and maybe got the call from the video ref, it may have been different but you have to give full credit to St Helens. They defend really well.

"There are really good positives for us. I think we can create some momentum from this. I thought we competed really well.

"We were still a bit scruffy in some areas but I have to say I'm pretty much pleased with everybody."