Challenge Cup 2013 Final: Recap of Wigan Warriors vs. Hull FC

For the second time in three seasons, Wigan Warriors have been crowned Challenge Cup champions at Wembley, capitalising upon the town’s FA Cup triumph that Wigan Athletic brought about just several months ago.

Although the victory was far from the extravaganza seen in previous finals, the boot of Pat Richards combined with try contributions from Iain Thornley and a superb late finish by Sam Tomkins tied up a deserved 16-0 win for the Warriors over Hull FC on Saturday.

Having lost three of their last four Super League outings, Shaun Wane’s side displayed far from their best form heading to London but managed to edge out the encounter in all the right areas.

Wigan were the more experienced outfit when it came to pressure matches such as this one, and it showed as Hull struggled to recapture the dark-horse aura of their semifinal win over Warrington.

The star talent among the Cherry and Whites’ ranks overcame all in the end. Half of the travelling legions were sent in delirium, especially when Tomkins crossed over for what could be his last try in the Challenge Cup as talks of a move to the NRL heat up, per BBC Sport.

For now at least, attention turns back to the Super League and whether or not Wane’s men can pull off a trophy double, but there’s no forgetting the club’s most recent success in a hurry.

X-Factor Matchup: Sam Tomkins vs. Jamie Shaul

The wet conditions made it practically impossible for either side to fashion fluid play like they did in previous stages of this competition. However, the fullbacks were as potent as ever, although both entered the fray in near opposite circumstances.

Sam Tomkins, the reigning Man of Steel and widely regarded as one of the best—if not the best—backs in Super League rugby, was expected to produce the goods, given his reputation. On the other hand, Hull's Jamie Shaul, a stand-in for the injured Shannon McDonnell, had surprised with his high standards in recent weeks.

Unfortunate not to score a length-of-the-field try himself, the young Hull FC speedster was denied by the likes of Tomkins and Josh Charnley on numerous occasions, but he showed the potential that fans have been hoping for.

In contrast, Tomkins managed to make use of what little good handling there was, and the 24-year-old’s score at the game’s death summed up how crucial his presence has been in this Wigan side.

Key Performers

Pat Richards

Although his day began in undesirable fashion when he sent his kickoff directly into the touch and earned the jeers of the Hull FC support, a person of Pat Richards’ resolve can always recover.

And recover the departing Australian did en route to his second and last Challenge Cup, just months before he’ll depart to join up with Wests Tigers in his native NRL.

Kicking well for his side for the remainder of the game, the 31-year-old had little more to do than simply deliver the goods when needed. He provided a crucial presence regardless thanks to the soggy weather.

Matty Smith

Named as the Man of the Match performer, Matty Smith thrived where his Hull counterparts simply could not and provided his side with ample opportunity to attack.

Even with the ball slipping about in such volatile fashion, the 26-year-old was a reliable catalyst in attack and was most impressive with his kicking ability.

Lifting the Lance Todd Trophy post match, he deserves any plaudits coming his way. He is ready for the celebrations if his Twitter activity is anything to go by.

He once again proved his worth as a superb playmaker for the Warriors. Wigan’s ball retention was in large part due to Smith’s reliability, but the former Everton academy footballer also gave a sturdy showing in defence.