Warrington Wolves advanced to the Super League grand final with a 14-12 win over Leeds Rhinos, a controversial penalty proving the difference at Headingley Stadium.
This marks Warrington’s first grand final since 2018 and they have never won the big jump before. Meanwhile, Leeds have been left waiting once again, with their last Grand Final win coming as far back as 2017.
The flashpoint of the match came in the 68th minute when James McDonnell was called down for a tackle on George Williams. It looked as if Williams had potentially gone into the Leeds man’s line, but despite the Rhinos using their Captain’s Challenge, the decision was upheld and Ewan Irwin sent over the conversion to win the game.
Amazingly, with no time left on the clock, Jake Connor tried to send Leeds a penalty from 62 yards out to tie the game, but couldn’t get enough power on it.
The game was tied at 12-12 at the break in what was a fascinating contest. Leeds Rhinos had got on the scoreboard through converted tries from Ryan Hall and Jake Connor, while Warrington had gone through James Bentley and Luke Yates.
Warrington will find out their grand final opponent on Saturday when Wigan Warriors host Wakefield Trinity, live on Sky Sportsstarting at 5:30 p.m.
The Super League grand final then takes place on Saturday 3 October, kick-off at 6pm, live Sky Sports.
More to follow…
qualifiers
Friday September 18: Wakefield Trinity 26-16 Leigh Leopards
Saturday September 19: Warrington Wolves 35-12 Hull KR
semifinals
Semi-Final 1 – Friday 25 September: Leeds Rhinos 12-14 Warrington Wolves
Semi-Final 2 – Saturday 26 September: Wigan Warriors v Wakefield Trinity, 5.30pm KO on Sky Sports
The Super League play-offs are underway, live on Sky Sports, and continue until the grand final from Old Trafford on October 3.