Jon Wilkin argued that even 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 stunning upset against the Wigan Warriors and secured a place in the Grand Final. The match turned into a second‑half fireworks display, with Trinity halting Wigan's 16‑match winning streak and leaving Matt Peet's side reeling under the sheer speed and physicality displayed by the visitors.
Wigan were reduced to 12 men after 45 minutes when Adam Keighran received a sin‑bin for a dangerous tip‑tackle. Wakefield seized the opportunity with ruthless efficiency, crossing the line three times while the Australian five‑eighth served his time off the pitch. The opening exchanges were competitive, with the Warriors matching Wakefield's intensity and Brad O'Neill breaking the deadlock after a tense first quarter of an hour. However, the League Leaders' Shield holders, who had enjoyed a two‑week break before the semi‑final, began to falter once the second half got underway.
"Wigan were poor, but that was entirely a result of what Wakefield threw at them," Wilkin told Sky Sports. "It was a clinical display packed with power, pace, energy, enthusiasm and flawless execution. No side in the Super League could have held their own against Wakefield today." He went on to say, "I would even argue that some of the great teams we have seen throughout Super League history would not have survived the 80 minutes of relentless pressure Wakefield delivered." Following Keighran's sin‑bin, Tom Johnston finished off a sweeping move with a diving try in the corner, and shortly after, Jack Sinfield powered through Junior Nsemba for a close‑range score.
The onslaught continued as Corey Hall sprinted down the wing and bulldozed his way over the line just seven minutes later. Ky Rodwell capped the 27‑point haul, converting a superb pass from 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 credit goes to them and to Daryl. We were outplayed, outcoached and out‑finished. It hurts, but the night belongs to them." With the semi‑final victory, Wakefield have guaranteed a new name on the Super League trophy and will now face Warrington Wolves in the Grand Final at Old Trafford next Saturday, a contest that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Powell's journey to this moment began after he left Castleford Tigers at the end of the 2021 season, having guided them to a Challenge Cup final and their first Super League Grand Final appearance. He took the helm at Wakefield in October 2023, and within a single season he has helped lift the club from the Championship to its inaugural Super League Grand Final, marking one of the most successful campaigns in the club's modern history. Wilkin reflected on Powell's impact, stating, "There was still some doubt after his time at Castleford, but there is no question that Daryl Powell is an exceptional coach who can organise a group of players and lead them to success.
He has done that with style and class. Wakefield play with risk and they play the game beautifully." Owner Matt Ellis also showered the team with praise after the win. "It still hasn't sunk in – 4,500 fans still singing, what a performance.
That was the best performance in my entire time owning the club. I'm so proud. We nailed it today, didn't we? I never imagined we'd be four scores ahead.
I had a good feeling all week; the pressure was on them, we came in confident. It's a happy group, now an even happier group. Three years after relegation, we are here!" The upcoming Betfred Super League Grand Final will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+ on Saturday, October 3, from 5 p.m. Fans can also watch via a Sky Sports subscription or stream contract‑free on NOW.
The stage is set for a historic showdown as Wakefield aim to cap off their fairy‑tale season with the ultimate prize.