Jon Wilkin argued that even some of the most storied squads in Super League annals would have struggled to overcome Wakefield Trinity on Saturday night, as Daryl Powell’s men produced a stunning upset over the Wigan Warriors and secured their place in the Grand Final. The match turned into a second‑half fireworks display, with Trinity halting Wigan’s 16‑match winning run and leaving Matt Peet’s side reeling after being out‑paced by Wakefield’s ferocious speed and brute strength.
The turning point arrived shortly after the halftime break when Wigan were reduced to twelve men. Adam Keighran received a sin‑bin for a dangerous tip‑tackle, and while the Australian five‑eighth served his time off the field, Wakefield seized the opportunity with ruthless efficiency. In the space of seven minutes the Trinity backline crossed the line three times, each try a testament to their clinical execution and relentless pressure. Wigan had shown promise in the opening exchanges, matching Wakefield’s intensity and even breaking the deadlock after fifteen minutes when Brad O’Neill found the try‑line.
However, the League Leaders’ Shield winners entered the second half on a two‑week break and appeared to lose steam. Wilkin told Sky Sports that the Warriors’ poor showing was largely a product of what Wakefield threw at them: “It was a clinical performance that was full of power, pace, energy, enthusiasm and execution.
Nobody would have competed with Wakefield today. Not one team in the Super League.” He went further, suggesting that “some of the great teams we’ve had in the history of Super League wouldn’t have competed with the 80 minutes that Wakefield have dished up.” The sentiment captured the shock that reverberated through the stadium as the home crowd witnessed a performance that felt historic. After Keighran’s sin‑bin, Tom Johnston finished a spectacular diving effort in the corner, and soon after Jack Sinfield powered his way over the line, beating Junior Nsemba in a close‑range scramble.
The third try of the burst came from Corey Hall, who sprinted down the wing before crashing into the try‑line, adding to the growing sense that Wakefield were unstoppable. Ky Rodwell capped the 27‑point haul with a try that showcased his handling skills, setting up a perfect finish for Jake Trueman. Post‑match, Wigan coach Matt Peet praised the opposition, acknowledging that his side had been “well prepared” but ultimately fell short. “Wakefield were outstandingly good,” he said.
“All the credit in the world to them, to Daryl. We were out‑played, out‑coached, and beaten on all fronts. Credit to them, it hurts, but the night belongs to them.” The victory guarantees a fresh name on the Super League trophy, as Trinity will now meet Warrington Wolves in the Grand Final at Old Trafford next Saturday, an event that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Powell’s journey to this point has been remarkable. He left Castleford Tigers after the 2021 season, having guided them to a Challenge Cup final and their first ever Super League Grand Final.
Appointed Wakefield head coach in October 2023, Powell has been instrumental in elevating the club from the Championship to its inaugural Super League Grand Final, delivering one of the best seasons in the club’s modern history. Wilkin reflected on Powell’s impact, noting that “the jury was still out after his spell at Castleford, but there is no doubt that Daryl Powell is an exceptional coach, who can get a group of men organised and directed to success. That’s what he’s done, and he’s done it with style and class. Wakefield play with risk and they play the game in a beautiful way.” Matt Ellis, the owner of Wakefield, showered his team with accolades after the match: “It’s still not sunk in yet.
Four‑and‑a‑half thousand fans still singing away. What a performance. That was the best performance in my time owning the club.
I’m so proud of them. We just nailed it today, didn’t we?
I never imagined in my wildest dreams we’d be four scores up. I had a good feeling all week; all the pressure was on them. We came here confident. It’s a happy group, but an even happier group right now.
There are so many good stories – three years after relegation, and now we’re there!” The triumph not only marks a milestone for Wakefield but also underscores the unpredictable nature of knockout rugby league, where preparation, tactical acumen, and moments of individual brilliance can overturn even the longest winning streaks. As the Super League’s showcase event approaches on October 3, fans will be eager to see whether Wakefield can translate their semi‑final fireworks into a championship‑winning performance, or if Warrington will rise to the occasion and claim the coveted Betfred Super League trophy.
The match will be available live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+, with streaming options on NOW for those without a traditional subscription.