Wigan's Rugby League Team Book Championship Decider Place After Nail-Biting Win Over Leigh's Rugby Side
Wigan Warriors are now just one win away from making Super League record books by aiming to be the third club ever to achieve three straight championship victories. The title holders overcame a determined challenge by the Leopards to earn their place at Old Trafford next Saturday.
Tense Buildup Overshadows Playoff Clash
The lead-up to the important semi-final was marked by off-field dispute, amid fears that the fixture might be called off over a disagreement regarding ticket distribution. In the end, the game proceeded as planned, as the Leopards' chief choosing to watch remotely in protest.
Hard-Fought Battle Highlights Leigh's Progress
These local rivals, separated by just a few miles, faced off in the semi-finals last season, when the Warriors secured an easy 38-0 victory on their way to another title. On this occasion, the contest was far tighter, demonstrating the major improvements the Leopards have achieved in recent months.
Despite a more competitive performance, the outcome was unchanged. The Warriors haven't reached the same heights as last season, yet they often perform in crucial moments.
Key Moments Shape the Result
The Leopards started strongly, controlling the opening phase in challenging playing weather. They believed they had scored the first try through Owen Trout, but a superb defensive stop denied the grounding, as confirmed by the video referee.
Wigan capitalized on a Leigh error as Hodgson fumbled the ball. Adam Keighran scooped it up and passed to Bevan French, who raced unopposed to cross under the posts opening the scoring.
The visitors responded well before halftime, tying the scores with a sharp try from Mulhern. However, in the interval, Wigan scored two quick tries—first a penalty and then a combination between French and Jai Field—taking a eight-point lead.
Final Period Momentum and Critical Defensive Play
The Leopards had to get the first points in the second half to shift momentum, but despite they began well, they couldn't to capitalize on their dominance. A key moment occurred as Trout broke clear appearing likely to cross, but Jai Field to produce a miraculous last-ditch stop to prevent the points.
That defensive play lifted Wigan's confidence, enabling them to manage the final stages comfortably. Walters added a late score assisted by French pass to complete an impressive victory, putting Wigan into the championship game.
Wigan will now face either Hull KR or St Helens in the final, as the task of stopping their title run appearing a tough prospect.
