Warrington Wolves have secured their place in the Super League Grand Final for the first time in eight years, edging out Leeds Rhinos 14-12 in a dramatic semi-final at AMT Headingley Stadium on September 25, 2026.
The match was a frantic encounter where both sides exchanged tries early on. Warrington took an early lead when Matty Ashton set up former Rhinos forward James Bentley, but Leeds responded through Ryan Hall, whose 358th career try equaled Neil Fox’s all-time record. Jake Connor added the extras and later scored another try after a well-worked move involving full-back Fergie McCormack.
Before halftime, Luke Yates slid over for Warrington, and 18-year-old Ewan Irwin leveled the scores at 12-12 by the break.
The turning point arrived in the second half when a penalty was awarded against Leeds’ James McDonnell for a high challenge on England captain George Williams. Irwin stepped up to convert the kick, giving Warrington a slender two-point advantage that proved decisive.
Leeds, playing with an injury-depleted squad missing Maika Sivo, Ash Handley, and Lachie Miller, fought hard to stay in contention. Chris Hankinson suffered a late injury in the warm-up, further weakening the Rhinos’ backline. Despite a spectacular 40/20 kick from Connor and a last-gasp goal attempt from 62 metres out, Leeds could not find a equalizer.
Warrington now await the winner of the other semi-final between Wigan Warriors and Wakefield Trinity. A victory in the upcoming final at Old Trafford would mark the Wolves’ first league title since 1955.
First Grand Final in eight years—does this mean they can finally end that 1955 drought? I’m cautiously optimistic!
Irwin’s composure from the tee was ice cold. That penalty turned the whole game around against a tired Leeds side.
14-12 in a semi-final? Absolute tension! Great result for Warrington finally reaching the decider.
Ryan Hall’s record is brilliant, but losing hurts. What a shame about all those injuries ruining their day.