Sean O'Loughlin insists Wigan have no regrets despite Grand Final defeat

Wigan captain Sean O'Loughlin says he has no regrets about the tactics used during Saturday's 22-20 Super League Grand Final defeat to Leeds at Old Trafford.

With his side leading 18-16 on the hour mark, O'Loughlin turned down an opportunity for another set of six close to the Rhinos' line, and instead chose to go for the posts after being awarded a penalty by referee Ben Thaler.

Full-back Matty Bowen successfully added the two points, but Wigan were made to pay for their cautious approach just two minutes later - Josh Walters going over for Leeds to level the scores.

Kevin Sinfield, who retired from Rugby League immediately following the match, then kept his composure to convert the extras and secure Leeds a historic domestic treble.

Despite his side's defeat, O'Loughlin says he doesn't regret his decision making during the game.

"Hindsight is a wonderful thing, isn't it," O'Loughlin said.

"We went with the flow and took the two. That's sport. It's gutting whenever you lose a final and this is no different. We did a lot in the second half to claw our way back into it and get our nose in front.

"But Leeds are a quality side. It's a massive achievement, a phenomenal effort to do the treble. They had a bit of a slump after the Challenge Cup final but they showed what a champion side they are by bouncing back.

"We're massively disappointed, but we've pushed Leeds all the way in the league and we pushed them all the way tonight. For a young and inexperienced squad, we've done a lot of good things this year and that will only benefit us next year."

O'Loughlin's team-mate Bowen is expected to retire from professional rugby following the defeat but also insists he has no regrets, despite twice finishing as a Super League runner-up.

"Obviously I've had a long two days," said the Australian, who became a father for the third time just a day before the Grand Final.

"The missus had the baby at 11.30 last night and I was in bed by 12 so I had a good rest. She's pretty supportive and, once the baby was stable and mum was stable, I had a sleep.

"It wasn't to be but I wouldn't change anything. I've loved every minute of my time at Wigan.

"I wasn't ready for it at the start but I've grown to love the players and the club. I'll certainly keep a close on them over the next couple of years.

"It's all done and dusted now and I can put my feet up. It hasn't really sunk it yet that I won't be training and playing next year, but I will obviously look back and reflect on my career and I wouldn't change a thing."

Wigan head coach Shaun Wane admits that he's disappointed to see Bowen retire without picking up a winner's medal.

"He's one of the best players I've ever dealt with," Wane said.

"I know a lot of people say it but he's an even better bloke off the field. He's one outstanding individual, one of the best.

"It's tough we couldn't get a win for him and a few of the other players who are leaving."