Wigan edge out Wakefield in thriller to set up mouthwatering Saints semi-final

Wigan Warriors survived an attritional Challenge Cup quarter-final against Wakefield Trinity to set up a mouthwatering semi-final showdown with their great rivals St Helens next month.

Having suffered the rare of occurrence of back-to-back defeats coming into the standout tie of the quarter-finals, there was a fair argument that Wigan travelled across the Pennines as underdogs against a Wakefield side who are threatening to become a major force in Super League.

But Matt Peet’s side came through a gruelling and engrossing tie to keep their hopes of a record-extending 22nd Challenge Cup crown alive with Zach Eckersley’s try in the final quarter ultimately the difference.

The contest was never really settled until the final hooter in West Yorkshire, with the hosts looking set to lead at half-time until Harry Smith’s try nudged the Warriors ahead. They responded well from being 12-0 down after early Wakefield tries for Jake Trueman and Ky Rodwell.

Patrick Mago and Liam Marshall hit back with tries for Wigan, before Wakefield went back ahead through a spectacular finish for Tom Johnstone. However, Smith’s try on the stroke of half-time was crucial, as was Eckersley’s first – both of which came when Wakefield forward Jazz Tevaga was in the sin-bin for kicking out at Marshall.

Cam Scott’s try for Wakefield shortly after Tevaga’s return restored parity and made it 22-22 but it was Wigan who held their nerve in the final quarter, scoring the decisive try as a wonderful piece of play sent Eckersley over in the corner.

All the pressure was applied by Wakefield in the final minutes as Wigan’s line was severely tested but despite some frantic last-ditch play from Trinity, the Warriors held on to set up a monumental tie with their greatest rivals. The second semi-final sees holders Hull KR face Warrington.