NickyKiss wrote:
Sam Tomkins 2009-2013 would be right up there. He was unplayable at points. The try at the Etihad against Saints where he dummied to himself was just outstanding and his try and celebration at Langtree park will live long in the memory. They were both in 2012 in that black and gold kit and they summed up how freakishly good he was at that point and he was feared (and hated because of the fear) across the league.
I’d say before Sam I’d be going with Robinson and Inga. They were dynamite and great to watch. They were the sort of players who made you sit up each time they got the ball.
I’d way those 3 have been the most enjoyable to watch but Terry Newton is my favourite. Watching these old derbies back has just reiterated how special he was for Wigan and how much playing for the club meant to him.
I agree 100% re Tomkins. I remember saying to a mate probably in the 2012 season that Tomkins was the most natural player that I had ever seen. He was quite shocked as I've watched the game for quite a few years and he expected me to say Hanley or Gregory etc but for me at that period in time he was fantastic to watch. When a player is hated so much by opposition fans then you know that you have someone special.
Terry Newton was a superb player for us particularly as you say against Saints. He could be pretty "nasty" but that was what I wanted from a forward. I never had a problem with a forward who got sent off once or twice in a season. He'd by in my best 13 without even thinking about it.
The player best at his "craft" was for me Gene Miles. Never seen a better a centre and probably never will. Offiah must thought it was his birthday everyday when he partnered Miles.
The player that gave me the most pleasure was Gareth Hock. I'd seen Gareth play from when he was at St Cuthberts junior school and even at the age of 10 you could see the class that the lad had. A great pity about his off the field activities (and some on the field) but when put on some skill such as steeping around Wellens (I think at the Etihad?) I used to just smile inwardly and savour the moment.
Favourite memory was watching Boston live at Central for the first time. We got mullered by Halifax and Boston was well past his best but just actually seeing him in the flesh so to speak had me walking on air for weeks afterwards.
I've been very lucky seeing some great players over the years.
My favourite opposition player was Peacock. Probably not the best in terms of skill but loved his attitude particularly when he put the Aussie on his arris.