Wigan Warriors remain on course for another Super League crown

Wigan Warriors 18 - 6 Leigh Leopards

Bevan French kept Wigan Warriors on course for a third successive Super League crown as he helped them overcome Leigh Leopards and book their place in the Grand Final.

Author | Amy W

Stadium | The Brick Community Stadium

View from the stands

French struck twice in the first half and, backed by an outstanding defensive display after the break, ensured Wigan edged a bruising encounter at the Brick Community Stadium. It was the same result as last year’s play-off semi-final, but this time the Warriors were made to work far harder than in their 38-0 rout of Leigh twelve months ago.

Leigh pushed their neighbours throughout and at times looked capable of an upset, but the defending champions once again showed their composure and quality when it mattered most. They now face Hull KR for a shot at a record-equalling 14th title at Old Trafford on 11 October. That has the potential to be an absolute classic. 

A closer analysis of a fascinating contest 

Pre-match fireworks

After a turbulent build-up marked by a row over ticket allocations, Leigh made the brighter start and thought they had taken the lead when Owen Trout went over early on, only for the video referee to uphold the on-field call of no try.

READ MORE | Wigan Warriors and Leigh Leopards ticket controversy

Wigan took advantage soon after as Bailey Hodgson spilled the ball under pressure, allowing Adam Keighran to send French racing over for the opening score. Leigh responded with a rare try from Robbie Mulhern, his first in 19 months, after a slick pass from Edwin Ipape, but a penalty conceded moments later allowed Keighran to restore Wigan’s lead.

Just before the interval, Jai Field sliced through the middle and found French in support to cross for his second. From then on, Wigan’s defence took centre stage. Field produced a superb try-saving tackle on Trout after the hour to preserve their advantage, before French capped his outstanding display by setting up Sam Walters for the final try in the closing moments.

It was a night that showcased Wigan’s blend of attacking flair and defensive grit, and one that leaves them within touching distance of another slice of Super League history.