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Wigan Warriors stand a single victory from from becoming Super League history as they chase to be only the third team to secure three straight championship victories. The title holders defeated a spirited effort by the Leopards to earn their place in the final this coming weekend.

Tense Buildup Overshadows Semi-Final

The lead-up to the important semi-final was dominated by external dispute, with concerns that the fixture might be called off due to a dispute about ticket allocations. In the end, the match went ahead as scheduled, with Leigh's owner choosing to watch from home as a statement.

Close Contest Underscores Leigh's Progress

The two nearby clubs, divided by only a short distance, faced off in the semi-finals a year ago, where Wigan recorded a comfortable shutout win on their way to the championship. On this occasion, the match was much closer, highlighting the significant strides Leigh have made in recent months.

Even with a stronger showing, the result was unchanged. The Warriors haven't reached the peak form of the previous year, but they often perform in crucial moments.

Key Moments Determine the Result

Leigh began with intensity, dominating the early exchanges in difficult weather conditions. They believed they had scored the opening points through a forward drive, only for a brilliant defensive stop prevented the grounding, verified on review.

Wigan took advantage of a Leigh error as Hodgson fumbled the ball. Adam Keighran scooped it up and passed to French, who raced in untouched to cross under the posts opening the scoring.

Leigh responded well before halftime, tying the game via a clever try from Mulhern. However, in the interval, Wigan struck twice—first a penalty and then a combination involving Field and French—to lead eight-point lead.

Second Half Pressure and Critical Defensive Play

Leigh had to get the first points after the break to change the game, and although they began well, they couldn't to capitalize on their dominance. The turning point occurred as Owen Trout found space appearing likely to cross, but Jai Field to produce a miraculous desperate tackle to prevent the try.

That defensive play lifted the Warriors' belief, enabling them to control the last quarter comfortably. Walters added a late try from a Bevan French pass to seal an impressive victory, sending the Warriors through to the Grand Final.

The Warriors will now face the winners of Hull KR or St Helens at Old Trafford, with the challenge to halt their winning streak looking a formidable one.