Weeks of preparation by Martin Fisher and his team at Wigan St Jude’s came to an end when the Australia Masters Tourists arrived in Wigan on Wednesday.
The tourists arrived at Wigan Warriors’ Central Park Centre to view the facilities there and to be introduced to the ethos of the current crop of Warriors players by Steve McCormack.
They then had a tour of the DW Stadium and were able to take their tour photograph on the pitch before heading off for afternoon teas and coffees (and beers!) at the St Jude’s club.
The two teams gathered at the ground as the traditional Wigan rain started to fall!
But This did not deter the players or the spectators who turned out, with Masters from Cumbria, Leigh, Leeds, Siddal and Blackpool amongst the crowd.
The game ebbed and flowed with the Australian Gold short players defending magnificently against the numerous attacking moves from the younger St Jude’s side.
Not even the introduction of Wales’ record appearance holder Ian Watson could turn the tide.
The presentations took place back in the bar with Pete Coughlin awarded Man of the Match for Australia and Martin Fisher being handed the St Jude’s Man of Match by Scotland Head Coach Steve McCormack.
A Q and A session followed with a star panel including McCormack, who turned out for Judes on Wednesday, Watson, Wigan’s George Williams, alongside former Wigan stars Graeme West and Bill Ashurst.
The Australians now move on to Leeds in preparation for their International clash with Great Britain Masters on Sunday August 14 at 3pm.
Domestic Masters also continues this weekend with the Lancashire / North West festival at Crosfields taking place on Saturday 13 August.
Masters Rugby League is for anyone aged 35 and over. For more information on how to get involved, email Paul Field on mastersrugbyleague@gmail.com.