MARTIN Gleeson's return to The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Friday night was a less than happy one.

The England centre left bloodied and disappointed after his Wigan side were overpowered and out-thought by his former employers in an exciting 'derby' clash.

Chants of 'Gleeson, what's the score?' rang out around the ground as the Warrington faithful revelled in a thoroughly deserved 16-8 victory.

Gleeson showed few signs of the quality he undoubtedly possesses, seeing little of the ball and finding himself on the receiving end of a couple of tasty hits from the Anderson brothers and Michael Monaghan.

Louis Anderson in particular targeted his former teammate, running the ball down his channel time and again during the second half. Gleeson was even left with a nasty-looking bruise on his left eye as a result of one heavy challenge.

On this evidence, the deal that sent Gleeson to Wigan for a six-figure sum plus Richie Mathers at the beginning of April looks a very good bit of business.

Mathers was impressive once again, providing an assured presence at full back.

The former Leeds star marshalled the defence well, looked solid under Warriors kicks, ran the ball back well and came into the line when he needed to.

But, despite a difficult night, Gleeson still found time to exchange a few words with his former Wolves teammates after the game.