Wigan Warriors Book Championship Decider Place Following Hard-Fought Triumph Against Leigh's Rugby Side

The Wigan squad stand a single victory from from making the top rugby league record books by aiming to become the third club ever to achieve three consecutive championship titles. The title holders defeated a spirited challenge from Leigh to secure a spot in the final next Saturday.

Tense Buildup Overshadowed Playoff Clash

The buildup to the important semi-final was dominated by external controversy, with concerns that the fixture might be called off due to a dispute about ticket allocations. Ultimately, the game proceeded as planned, as the Leopards' chief choosing to watch remotely in protest.

Close Contest Underscores 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 en route to another title. On this occasion, the match was much closer, demonstrating the significant strides Leigh have achieved over the past year.

Even with a more competitive performance, the result remained the same. The Warriors may not have hit the same heights of the previous year, but they consistently deliver when it matters most.

Deciding Plays Shape the Result

The Leopards started strongly, dominating the early exchanges in challenging playing weather. They believed they'd crossed the opening points through Owen Trout, but a superb defensive stop prevented the score, verified by the video referee.

The hosts capitalized on a mistake when Bailey Hodgson fumbled the ball. Keighran scooped it up feeding French, who sprinted unopposed to cross between the uprights for a 6-0 lead.

The visitors fought back as the break neared, leveling the game via a clever score by Mulhern. However, in the interval, the Warriors scored two quick tries—first a penalty and another from open play involving Field and French—taking a 14-6 at halftime.

Final Period Pressure and Critical Defensive Play

Leigh had to get an early score after the break to shift momentum, and although they began well, they couldn't to capitalize on their dominance. A key moment came when Owen Trout broke clear and looked certain to score, only for Field to produce a miraculous desperate stop to prevent the points.

That stop boosted Wigan's confidence, allowing them to control the final stages with ease. Walters scored a final try from a Bevan French pass to complete a stylish victory, sending the Warriors through to the championship game.

Wigan now await the winners of St Helens or Hull KR at Old Trafford, as the task of stopping their winning streak appearing a tough prospect.