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Wigan thrashes Hull KR 46-0 to claim Super League top spot

BBC Sport •
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Wigan Warriors moved to the top of the Betfred Super League with a commanding 46-0 victory over Hull KR at the Brick Community Stadium. The match served as an emotional tribute to the late Sir Billy Boston, who died at 92 after a remarkable career with 478 tries in 488 games. Wigan's Liam Marshall scored a hat-trick, with Jai Field, Zach Eckersley (2), Adam Keighran and Jake Wardle all finding the try line.

Torrential rain in the second half hampered Hull KR's efforts as they fielded a depleted side. The victory moved Wigan two points clear of Leeds Rhinos, while Hull KR remain sixth, two points ahead of St Helens for the final play-off spot. Boston was a Great Britain international and the first black British player to tour Australia and New Zealand in 1954, and the first rugby league player to receive a knighthood in the sport's 130-year history.

A rendition of Jerusalem was sung and wreaths laid before kick-off. Wigan wore "Billy" on their shirts in tribute, with manager Matt Peet calling it "a fitting occasion for Billy with everything the club did." Hull KR coach Willie Peters praised his young side's effort despite being outclassed.