Wigan Warriors got back to winning ways at the DW Stadium tonight, beating Leeds Rhinos 21-6 in a crucial clash that saw the Warriors consolidate their Super League play-off prospects.
Wigan took the lead early with a superb try from recalled winger Joe Burgess, who touched down a Blake Green kick to the tryline.
The Rhinos responded strongly, but went further behind when Matty Smith intercepted a pass from Zak Hardaker and strode over unchallenged, converting his own try for a 12-0 lead.
And Smith extended the lead to 14-0 just before the break when he converted a penalty from in front of the posts.
The Rhinos came out for the second half full of determination, however, and Liam Sutcliffe touched down after the ball went loose in the Wigan half. Kevin Sinfield converted the try from the touchline.
And the Rhinos tried to get back on terms but they couldn’t make any further impression on the Wigan defence, and it was Ben Flower who scored the final try with ten minutes remaining. Smith added the goal and a late field-goal for a final score of 21-6 in front of the biggest Super League crowd of the season of 20,356.
A full report, analysis and photos of this game will feature in Monday’s edition of League Express.
