Wigan Warriors boast Challenge Cup 2011 bid after defeating Leeds Rhinos – Rugby League news
Wigan Warriors, the League toppers have proved their mettle by defeating 28-18 by already branded underdogs, Leeds Rhinos at the final showdown of the Carnegie Challenge Cup, at the Headingley Carnegie Stadium in Wembley.
From the very start, the Wigans were appearing to be in full control of their game. In the very first minute of the kick-off, Ryan Hoffman of Wigans charged into action surpassing the wall of defence offered by the Leeds. Hoffman’s efforts were coupled by
an important tackle by Brent Webb, which was taken up by Brett Finch’s kick which was turned down by Josh Charnley. This brave move by the Warriors failed to contribute to the scoreboard.
This was followed by a kick by Leeds during the third tackle that led to a penalty bagged by Jamie Jones-Buchanan of Wigans. The Wigans were very vigilant with their ball handling and into the third minute of the game, the scores were 6-0 which had put the
Wigans in a stronger position since the start of the clash.
During the seventh minute, Keith Sinfield kicked the ball which was closely followed by another kick from Finch which was passed to Webb.
By the eighth minute into the clash, the Rhinos had also geared into action. Almost 10 minutes into the game, Josh Charnley scored a try which was not converted successfully by Pat Richards.
Again, Wigans broke through the wall of defence of Leeds and Sam Tomkins was charged down by Jones Bishop that left the touch-line open for the opponents. With this, the pressure on Leeds was mounting up. The good stint by Leeds in terms of their defence
initiated, as they successfully halted many attempts of Wigans.
However, by the half time the Wigans were not rebutted at all as the scores read 16-0. This scenario was soon changed as Rhinos sprung back to life which left the scores 18-28 to brand Wigans the title-holders of the night.
Nonetheless, this was a team work but if one is to single out a person for making this win for Wigans possible, that is Jeff Lima, the ex-kiwi international. Lima’s tries were perfectly timed and led to the realisation of Wigans’ Wembley dream in 16 years.
Tags: