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Wigan beat St Helens 16-14 as Nsemba abused

BBC Sport •
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Wigan Warriors edged St Helens 16-14 at Magic Weekend after Jackson Hastings missed a conversion attempt to level the scores after the final hooter. The dramatic finish capped a fierce rivalry clash decided by the narrowest of margins.

Hours later, police arrested a man after Junior Nsemba was subjected to racist abuse following the victory. The 20-year-old England forward, who played a prominent role in the win, became the target of online hatred that prompted an immediate investigation.

The club released a statement saying they were "appalled" and condemned the comments "in the strongest possible terms." Head coach Matt Peet emphasized the need for accountability: "We need to take care of this and make sure it just doesn't get brushed under the carpet."

The incident casts a shadow over a result that keeps Wigan in the title hunt. Beyond the two competition points, the episode tests the sport's resolve to confront racism decisively. The arrest signals authorities are treating it seriously, but the lasting measure will be whether consequences match the rhetoric.