🔗 Share this article Wigan Warriors Earn Grand Final Position After Nail-Biting Triumph Against Leigh Leopards The Wigan squad are now just one win away from making Super League record books as they chase to be the third club ever to achieve three straight championship titles. The reigning champions defeated a spirited effort by the Leopards to secure their place at Old Trafford this coming weekend. Tense Buildup Overshadowed Semi-Final The lead-up to the important semi-final was marked by off-field controversy, amid fears that the game could be cancelled due to a dispute about ticket allocations. Ultimately, the match proceeded as planned, as the Leopards' chief opting to view from home in protest. Close Contest Highlights Leopards' Improvement These local rivals, divided by only a short distance, met at the same stage a year ago, where Wigan recorded a comfortable shutout win on their way to another title. This time around, the match was far tighter, highlighting the major improvements the Leopards have made over the past year. Despite a stronger showing, the result remained the same. Wigan may not have hit the peak form of the previous year, but they often perform in crucial moments. Deciding Plays Shape the Outcome The Leopards began with intensity, dominating the early exchanges in difficult playing weather. They believed they had scored the first try through a forward drive, only for a brilliant tackle from Harry Smith prevented the score, verified on review. The hosts capitalized on a Leigh error as Hodgson fumbled the ball. Adam Keighran scooped it up feeding French, who sprinted unopposed to cross under the posts for a 6-0 lead. The visitors responded well as the break neared, leveling the scores with a sharp score by Robbie Mulhern. But just before the half's end, Wigan struck twice—first a penalty and another from open play between French and Jai Field—taking a 14-6 at halftime. Second Half Pressure and Critical Defensive Play Leigh had to get an early score after the break to change the game, but despite starting brightly, they failed to convert their dominance. The turning point came when Trout broke clear appearing likely to cross, only for Field to make a miraculous last-ditch stop to save the points. That stop lifted Wigan's confidence, enabling them to manage the last quarter comfortably. Sam Walters added a late try from a Bevan French pass to seal a stylish victory, putting the Warriors into the championship game. The Warriors will now face the winners of Hull KR or St Helens in the final, with the challenge of stopping their winning streak looking a formidable one.