Leeds have revitalised their season under new coach Brad Arthur, but they ran into a Wigan side that has now won five on the bounce since they were surprised 30-4 by the Rhinos at Headingley five weeks ago.
The memory of that shock was still fresh as Wigan were out of the blocks like lightning, scoring two tries in the first eight minutes.
The first was quite stunning. For once, the influential Harry Smith’s kick to the flank was slightly overhit but winger Marshall showed balletic qualities to leap over the touchline and somehow flipped the ball back over his head for Wardle, who produced a diving one-handed finish tight in the corner.
With their tails up, Wigan roared forward again as Ellis raced clear, and with three men in support, slipped a pass for French to go under the posts.
Leeds showed some of the steel that Arthur has introduced to fight their way back into the game but they ran into a defence in uncompromising mood.
Just before half-time, Wardle returned Marshall’s earlier favour with a lovely flipped pass to give the competition’s leading try scorer his 25th of the campaign.
Wigan were relentless in the second half as Leeds wilted under the constant pressure, as the power of replacement Patrick Mago, the delicacy of Smith, and the irresistible running of Jai Field and French gave them no respite.
Ellis scored his first try of the season, crashing through a gap in the Leeds defence, and Miski ran on to a sharp dabbed kick from Smith for another score.
Keighran added to the rout by grabbing Smith’ dainty lob to go over, and French was the beneficiary of another assist from his half-back partner’s boot for his second try of the night in the closing minutes.
