Jon Wilkin argued that some of the most celebrated squads in Super League annals would have struggled to overcome Wakefield Trinity on Saturday night, as Daryl Powell’s men pulled off a spectacular upset against the Wigan Warriors, securing their place in the Grand Final. A cascade of tries in the second half saw Trinity halt Wigan’s 16‑match winning run, leaving Matt Peet’s side bewildered by the sheer speed and physicality on display. Wigan were reduced to 12 men after 45 minutes when Adam Keighran received a sin‑bin for a dangerous tip‑tackle. Wakefield capitalised ruthlessly, crossing the line three times while the Australian five‑eighth served his penalty.
The visitors started brightly, matching Wakefield’s intensity in the opening exchanges. Brad O’Neill broke the deadlock after a tense first fifteen minutes, giving Wigan an early lead.
However, the League Leaders’ Shield holders, who had enjoyed a two‑week break before the semi‑final, faltered after the interval. "Wigan were poor, but that was entirely a result of what Wakefield threw at them," Wilkin told Sky Sports. "It was a clinical display, brimming with power, pace, energy, enthusiasm and flawless execution. No side in the Super League could have competed with Wakefield today." Wilkin went further, stating, "I would even say that several of the great teams we’ve seen in Super League history would have struggled to survive the 80 minutes of relentless pressure Wakefield delivered." Following Keighran’s sin‑bin, Tom Johnston dived into the corner for a try, and shortly after, Jack Sinfield powered through Junior Nsemba at close range to add another.
Within seven minutes, Corey Hall sprinted down the wing and smashed over the line for a third try. Ky Rodwell sealed the 27‑point triumph, aided by superb handling from Jake Trueman. Post‑match, Wigan coach Matt Peet praised Wakefield, acknowledging that his own side had been "well prepared" but ultimately fell short. "Wakefield were outstandingly good," he said.
"All credit goes to them and to Daryl. We were out‑played, out‑coached and beaten in every department.
It hurts, but the night belongs to them." With this victory, a new name is guaranteed on the Super League trophy. Wakefield will now meet Warrington Wolves in the Grand Final at Old Trafford next Saturday, a fixture that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Powell, who left Castleford Tigers at the end of the 2021 season after guiding them to a Challenge Cup final and their first Super League Grand Final, was appointed head coach at Wakefield in October 2023.
He has been pivotal in elevating the club from the Championship to its inaugural Super League Grand Final appearance, delivering one of the best seasons in the club’s modern history. Wilkin reflected on Powell’s impact, noting, "There was still some doubt after his spell at Castleford, but there’s no question Daryl Powell is an exceptional coach who can organise and inspire a group of players to achieve success. He’s done that with style and class. Wakefield play with flair and take risks, producing a beautiful brand of rugby." Owner Matt Ellis showered the team with admiration after the match: "It still hasn’t sunk in.
Over four and a half thousand fans were still singing after the final whistle. That was the best performance I’ve seen in my time owning the club. I’m incredibly proud of the lads – we nailed it today, didn’t we?
I never imagined we’d win by four scores. I had a good feeling all week; the pressure was on them, but we came in confident. It’s a happy group, and now they’re an even happier group.
Three years after relegation, we’re here, and the stories we’re creating are amazing." The upcoming Betfred Super League Grand Final promises to be a showcase event, with the showdown streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+ on Saturday, October 3, from 5 p.m. Viewers can also watch via NOW without a contract.