Wigan Warriors punched their ticket to a monumental Challenge Cup semi-final against St Helens with a gritty 26-22 victory over Wakefield Trinity in a quarter-final thriller. Zach Eckersley’s try in the final quarter proved the difference, keeping Wigan’s quest for a record-extending 22nd crown alive.
Matt Peet’s side entered this standout tie as underdogs, having suffered back-to-back defeats. Wakefield Trinity, threatening to become a major force in Super League, looked poised to capitalize. But Wigan weathered an early storm and a frantic finish to secure the win.
Wakefield struck first with tries from Jake Trueman and Ky Rodwell, racing to a 12-0 lead. Wigan responded through Patrick Mago and Liam Marshall, but Tom Johnstone’s spectacular finish put Trinity back ahead. The momentum shifted when Wakefield forward Jazz Tevaga was sin-binned for kicking out at Marshall.
Harry Smith’s try on the stroke of half-time nudged Wigan ahead, and Eckersley’s first score extended the lead during Tevaga’s absence. Cam Scott’s try after Tevaga’s return leveled it at 22-22, setting up a tense final quarter.
Eckersley’s decisive try came from a wonderful piece of play, sending him over in the corner. Wakefield applied all the pressure in the final minutes, testing Wigan’s line with frantic last-ditch efforts, but the Warriors held firm.
This victory sets up a mouthwatering semi-final showdown with great rivals St Helens next month. In the other semi-final, holders Hull KR face Warrington.
