The intensity of rugby league rivalries took center stage once again as Wakefield Trinity’s winger Lachlan Walmsley made headlines following his side’s emphatic win over Castleford Tigers. But it wasn’t just the 38-6 scoreline that got people talking—it was Walmsley’s pointed post-match comment that stirred the pot.
Speaking to reporters after the game, the Australian-born speedster didn’t hold back his assessment of the match. “Honestly, that was the easiest game I can remember playing in recent years,” Walmsley said with a half-smile, clearly sending a message to Castleford.
The statement immediately raised eyebrows across the rugby league community. While Wakefield’s performance was undoubtedly dominant—displaying sharp ball movement, physical superiority, and clinical finishing—Walmsley’s remark added an extra layer of spice to an already fierce rivalry.
Wakefield Trinity, relegated from Super League in 2023 but eyeing a rapid return, looked every bit a top-tier side in the clash. From the opening minutes, Trinity established control with relentless pressure, winning the territory battle and forcing Castleford onto the back foot.
Walmsley himself crossed the whitewash twice, thrilling the home fans and showing the kind of form that has made him one of Wakefield’s most valuable assets. His blistering pace and positional awareness repeatedly exposed Castleford’s defensive frailties.
“We just stuck to our structure,” Walmsley added. “Everyone did their job and we didn’t let up. Games like that are the ones you enjoy—everything clicks.”
It didn’t take long for social media to erupt. Wakefield fans applauded Walmsley for his honesty and competitiveness, while Castleford supporters labeled the comment as “disrespectful” and “unnecessary.”
One Wakefield fan posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Walmsley just said what we were all thinking. Castleford weren’t up for it. That’s not our problem!”
On the other side, a Tigers fan responded, “Celebrate the win, sure, but don’t talk like that. It’s fuel for the return leg.”
Former rugby league player and pundit Brian Carney weighed in on Sky Sports: “That’s a confident player speaking, and when you’ve dominated like that, emotions run high. It’s up to Castleford to respond next time.”
Wakefield head coach Daryl Powell, who has worked tirelessly to instill a new identity at the club since their drop to the Championship, tried to downplay the comment while backing his player.
“Lachlan had a great game and spoke his mind,” Powell said. “We’re not here to disrespect opponents, but we’re also not going to sugarcoat it—our lads were dominant from start to finish.”
Castleford’s coach Craig Lingard, visibly frustrated in the post-match presser, kept his response measured but firm: “We know that wasn’t good enough, and if someone wants to call it ‘easy,’ that’s their opinion. We’ll remember that when we meet again.”
If Castleford needed any more motivation, Walmsley’s comment just handed it to them on a silver platter. The next meeting between these two clubs promises to be a fiery encounter, with pride, revenge, and bragging rights on the line.
For now, Wakefield will bask in a performance that reaffirms their status as promotion contenders. For Walmsley, it was another standout display in a season that’s quickly becoming one of his best.
“We’ve got bigger goals this year,” Walmsley concluded. “But yeah, tonight was fun.”
And with that subtle jab, rugby league fans now have a new date circled on their calendar—the rematch.
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