Rugby League: Leeds Rhinos 12 - 14 Wakefield Trinity

Wakefield Trinity make a triumphant return to Super League

The away side held off a late Leeds Rhinos fightback to claim victory at Headingley. Despite a tense finale, Max Jowitt’s first-half brace and Mason Lino’s opportunistic score proved enough to secure the win.

Author - Oliver W

In a match punctuated by frequent video referee interventions, Wakefield took time to find their rhythm but struck first in the 22nd minute. A clever cross-field kick from Lino was kept in play by Tom Johnstone, allowing Jowitt and Corey Hall to combine before Jowitt crossed the line. The video referee confirmed the try, and Jowitt added the extras.

Moments later, Jowitt doubled his tally, finishing off a surging run and slick pass from Jake Trueman. This time, he failed to convert, but Wakefield’s momentum was building. They appeared to have a third try in quick succession when Oli Pratt darted over, only for the video referee to rule it out for a foul by Mike McMeeken on Brodie Croft.

Leeds’ defensive frailties were exposed again, as another video review awarded Wakefield a third try when Lino pounced on a dropped ball from Jake Connor. Jowitt’s conversion attempt drifted wide, keeping Leeds within striking distance.

The Rhinos responded on the stroke of half-time, with the video referee overturning an on-field decision to award Harry Newman a try from Croft’s bouncing kick. Connor converted, narrowing the deficit.

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Wakefield maintained their attacking intent after the break, forcing Leeds into last-ditch defensive efforts. Ryan Hall produced a crucial tackle to deny Corey Hall on the try line, as the visitors pressed for a killer blow.

As the game entered its final stages, Wakefield found themselves under increasing pressure and were dealt a setback when Lino was shown a yellow card for a high tackle with 16 minutes to play. Smelling blood, Leeds surged forward, and Sam Lisone powered over with just 43 seconds remaining. Connor converted, but the comeback came too late, leaving the Rhinos to rue a slow start.

Wakefield, meanwhile, will take confidence from a hard-fought win on their Super League return—despite an ending that tested their resolve.