Wakefield Trinity produced a stunning performance to defeat Super League leaders Wigan Warriors 24-18 at Belle Vue on Saturday, ending Wigan's six-match winning streak and throwing the title race wide open.
First half dominance
Wakefield came flying out of the blocks, scoring three tries in the opening 25 minutes to establish a commanding 18-0 lead. Winger Tom Johnstone crossed twice, while fullback Max Jowitt added a try and two conversions to put the hosts in control.
Wigan struggled to contain Wakefield's attacking flair, with the Trinity forwards laying a solid platform. The Warriors' defence, usually so resolute, was caught off guard by the pace and intensity of the home side.
Wigan fight back
Wigan hit back before half-time through a try from centre Jake Wardle, converted by Harry Smith, to reduce the deficit to 18-6 at the break. The visitors came out stronger in the second half, with Smith adding a penalty and then a try from winger Liam Marshall making it 18-12.
But Wakefield refused to buckle. A brilliant individual effort from scrum-half Mason Lino restored their 12-point lead, Lino stepping through the Wigan defence to score under the posts. Jowitt's conversion made it 24-12.
Late drama
Wigan set up a tense finish when substitute prop Ethan Havard crashed over from close range with eight minutes remaining. Smith's conversion cut the gap to six points, but Wakefield's defence held firm in the closing stages to secure a famous victory.
Trinity coach Mark Applegarth hailed his side's performance as "one of the best of the season". He said: "We knew we had to be at our best against a quality side like Wigan. The lads were outstanding, especially in that first half. We showed great character to hold on when they came back at us."
Wigan coach Matt Peet admitted his team were second best. "Wakefield deserved the win. They were more aggressive and sharper than us. We have to learn from this and bounce back next week."
The result moves Wakefield up to fifth in the Super League table, while Wigan remain top but now lead second-placed St Helens by only two points.
