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The Wigan squad are now a single victory from from becoming Super League record books by aiming to be only the third team to achieve three straight championship titles. The title holders defeated a determined challenge from Leigh to secure a spot in the final next Saturday.

Pre-Match Drama Overshadowed Playoff Clash

The buildup to the important semi-final was marked by external dispute, amid fears that the fixture might be called off over a disagreement regarding ticket allocations. In the end, the game proceeded as planned, with Leigh's owner opting to view remotely as a statement.

Close Contest Underscores Leopards' Improvement

The two nearby clubs, separated by only a short distance, met at the same stage last season, when the Warriors recorded a comfortable 38-0 victory en route to the championship. This time around, the contest was much closer, highlighting the major improvements the Leopards have made in recent months.

Despite a stronger performance, the outcome was unchanged. Wigan haven't reached the peak form as last season, but they consistently deliver in crucial moments.

Key Moments Shape the Outcome

The Leopards started strongly, controlling the opening phase in difficult playing weather. They thought they had scored the opening points through Owen Trout, but a superb tackle from Harry Smith prevented the grounding, as confirmed on review.

The hosts capitalized on a Leigh error when Bailey Hodgson fumbled the ball. Keighran scooped it up feeding Bevan French, who sprinted in untouched to score under the posts opening the scoring.

Leigh fought back as the break neared, tying the game with a sharp score by Robbie Mulhern. However, in the half's end, the Warriors struck twice—one from a kick and then a combination involving Field and French—taking a eight-point lead.

Final Period Pressure and Critical Defensive Play

The Leopards had to get the first points in the second half to shift momentum, and although starting brightly, they failed to convert their dominance. The turning point came when Trout found space and looked certain to cross, but Field to make a miraculous desperate stop to save the points.

That stop lifted Wigan's confidence, enabling them to manage the last quarter comfortably. Sam Walters scored a final score assisted by French pass to complete an impressive win, sending Wigan through to the Grand Final.

Wigan will now face the winners of St Helens or Hull KR at Old Trafford, with the challenge to halt their title run looking a formidable one.