Kear: We sensed glory

The pressure's off Wigan coach Stuart Raper

By BBC Sport Online's Phil Gordos at Murrayfield

Wigan assistant boss John Kear said he "sensed" all week that his team would upset favourites St Helens and win the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge Cup.

The Warriors got their hands on the trophy for the first time since 1995 thanks to a stunning 21-12 success over the Cup holders at Murrayfield.

The win also eased the pressure on Wigan coach Stuart Raper, who had come under fire following a disappointing start to the Super League season.

After the first try, which was an exceptional try, we just felt it was our day

Wigan's John Kear

"We just felt we were going to come away with the spoils. Weżve sensed it all week," said Kear, who also led Sheffield Eagles to a shock victory over Wigan in 1998.

"Preparation was very good and it was a very good camp.

"After the first try, which was an exceptional try, we just felt it was our day."

The former England coach said Wigan's defensive effort was a big factor in the win and singled out Lance Todd Trophy winner Kris Radlinski for special praise.

"We had an awful start when Julian [O'Neill] dropped the ball, but defensively we fronted up to them and forced them into errors," said Kear.

"Defensively we looked very, very comfortable."

From sick bed to Lance Todd Trophy is a great, great story and Kris thoroughly deserves it

Kear on Radlinski

Radlinski had been a major doubt for the final after being hospitalised with a blood infection in his right foot.

He was only confirmed as a definite starter 90 minutes before kick-off but came up with another magnificent display to earn the man-of-the-match award.

"Kris Radlinski is a very special player," said Kear.

"He made two or three try-saving tackles and put boot to ball, which must have hurt him. His carrying of the football was outstanding as well."

Kear added: "It's such a great story, isn't it? Every year the Cup final throws one up.

"From sick bed to Lance Todd Trophy is a great, great story and Kris thoroughly deserves it."