Wakefield Trinity secured a crucial 26-12 victory over Bradford Bulls at Odsal Stadium, moving into second place in the Super League table.
The win, achieved with a five-try performance, sees Wakefield leapfrog Wigan and continues their remarkable ascent since returning from the Championship in 2024. Owner Matt Ellis, who took charge nearly three years ago, has overseen a transformation that now sees the club as genuine title contenders.
Despite a spirited display from injury-hit Bradford, Wakefield showed the hallmark of champions by grinding out a win when not at their best. Coach Daryl Powell praised his side's resilience: “Would we lose that last year? Maybe. We’ve come out of another tight game and that’s pleasing from a coaching perspective.”
Match highlights: Johnstone’s early try sets tone, but Bradford fight back
Wakefield started brightly when Tom Johnstone scored after just two minutes, capitalising on a Bradford error from the kick-off. However, the Bulls levelled through Ethan Ryan’s superb aerial finish. Will Tate’s try just before half-time restored Wakefield’s lead at 10-4.
After the restart, Jay Pitts extended the advantage, but Bradford responded again through Chris Atkin’s magnificent try, narrowing the gap to four points. The momentum swung towards the Bulls as the game entered the final quarter.
Wakefield’s resolve sees them through tense final stages
With Bradford applying heavy pressure, Wakefield held firm. Josh Rourke seized on a Caleb Aekins error to score a crucial try, breaking Bradford’s spirit. Harvey Smith’s instinctive finish in the final three minutes sealed the 26-12 victory, a scoreline that flattered Wakefield given the contest.
Bradford coach Kurt Haggerty expressed his devastation: “We put a big theme around the week of beating a team in the top six, and I’m so devastated we’ve not won the game. That really stings. The gap is big in terms of longevity in Super League, squad depth and finances, but when you turn up and compete ... I’m so proud of them.”
Wakefield’s trajectory: From Championship to title contenders
Two years ago, these sides met in the Championship. Now Wakefield sit second in Super League, having made the playoffs last season. Their owner’s investment and ambition are paying off, with the club last champions of England in 1968. Bigger tests await, but the table suggests a new name is entering the Grand Final conversation.
