Wigan Warriors dominate Catalans Dragons 48-0 in Joel Tomkins’ first game as interim coach, tightening the race for Super League top spot.

Wigan Warriors moved within two points of Super League leaders Hull KR with a commanding 48-0 victory over Catalans Dragons in Perpignan. In his debut as interim head coach, Joel Tomkins faced a tough challenge as the hosts dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge to breach Wigan’s stout defence.

Jai Field set the tone early, racing 40 metres to score his 15th try this season, and went on to lead the try-scoring charts with 13 league tries. Sam Walters and Liam Marshall also crossed before halftime to give Wigan a 20-0 cushion.

Despite committing several errors, Wigan maximised their attacking chances. Marshall’s second try came from a spectacular 90-metre interception, while Kruise Leeming, Junior Nsemba, Bevan French and Harry Smith added late tries to pile on the misery for the Dragons, who have now been shut out twice in succession and remain eighth in the table.

Adam Keighran was flawless with the boot, converting eight of nine attempts to add crucial points.

The game saw some bright moments for Wigan, including Ethan Havard returning after four months out with a hamstring injury, although Walters left the field early due to a leg problem.

Tomkins praised his players’ focus despite the heavy defeat and acknowledged the gap between his team and the league’s best sides. “We are not at that level at the minute,” he admitted, while Wigan coach Matt Peet highlighted his team’s pace, defensive improvements, and cohesion as keys to their winning streak.

With seven consecutive Super League wins, Wigan look well poised to challenge Hull KR at the summit as the season enters its crucial phase