Wakefield Trinity's remarkable ascent to Super League contenders continues with a gutsy five-try win over Bradford Bulls, showcasing their resilience and championship pedigree. Two years after meeting in the Championship, Trinity sit second in the Super League table, proving that owner Matt Ellis's investment and ambition are paying off.
Wakefield Trinity's Championship Comeback
Wakefield Trinity, last champions of England back in 1968, have transformed into a formidable force under coach Daryl Powell. Their victory at Odsal Stadium was not flashy, but they displayed the grit of champion sides, finding a way to win even when not at their best. Harvey Smith's decisive try with three minutes left sealed the 28-22 win.
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Key Performances and Turning Points
Tom Johnstone opened the scoring after two minutes when Bradford made a mess of the kick-off. However, the Bulls, led by Kurt Haggerty, showed immense resilience despite being decimated by injuries, losing prop Loghan Lewis in the warm-up and Dan Russell mid-match. Wakefield's ability to handle pressure was critical.
| Team | Tries | Key Player | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wakefield Trinity | 5 | Harvey Smith | Win |
| Bradford Bulls | 3 | Tom Johnstone | Loss |
What This Means for Super League
Wakefield's trajectory since their solitary season in the Championship in 2024 has been remarkable. After making the playoffs last year, they are now genuine contenders. Coach Powell admitted, "Would we lose that last year? Maybe. We've come out of another tight game and that's pleasing from a coaching perspective."
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Wakefield Trinity sit second in the Super League table after a gritty win.
- Harvey Smith's late try proved decisive, showing championship composure.
- Bradford Bulls fought hard despite injuries, but fell short.
- Wakefield's owner Matt Ellis celebrated with travelling fans post-match.
- The club is waking from its slumber, aiming for a top finish.
FAQ
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