In a pulsating Betfred Super League clash at the DIY Kitchens Stadium on Sunday, June 15, 2025, Leigh Leopards edged out Wakefield Trinity 24-20 in a match that showcased resilience, drama, and heartfelt emotion. Joe Ofahengaue’s late try ultimately proved to be the decisive moment, securing another crucial victory for Leigh and underscoring their credentials as a top-four contender this season.
The game was far more than just a battle on the pitch. It was dedicated to Wakefield coach Daryl Powell’s toddler grandson Clarke, who has been bravely fighting acute myeloid leukaemia since January 2025. Clarke led the teams out, carried onto the field by his mother, and the clubs promoted 'Team Clarkey Boy' to raise funds for Candlelighters, a charity supporting children with cancer in Yorkshire. The emotional backdrop added an extra layer of significance to the contest.
Leigh started the match with relentless pressure, scoring inside three minutes without Wakefield touching the ball. David Armstrong forced his way over the line with a clever dummy, despite Ben McNamara missing the conversion. Wakefield, however, responded quickly through Max Jowitt, who scored his ninth try of the season after a slick dummy and sharp support play. Jowitt’s conversion put Wakefield ahead 6-4 briefly, but McNamara’s penalty restored parity at 6-6.
Leigh’s half-back Ben McNamara was instrumental throughout, orchestrating plays and landing four goals in total. His inside pass set up Armstrong’s second try, extending Leigh’s lead to 14-6. Wakefield’s defense was tested, with Jowitt producing heroic tackles, including one that denied Darnell McIntosh a certain try just before half-time. McNamara added another penalty to push the lead to 18-6, but Wakefield fought back late in the first half. Oliver Pratt’s try from a well-timed pass by Jowitt narrowed the gap to 18-12 at the break.
The second half turned into a gripping arm wrestle. Wakefield’s Jake Trueman returned from injury to partner Mason Lino in the halves, injecting energy and creativity. Jowitt kicked a penalty to reduce the deficit to four points before Trueman’s high kick caused havoc in the Leigh defense, allowing Corey Hall to score. Jowitt’s conversion put Wakefield ahead 20-18 for the first time since early in the match, igniting the home crowd and raising hopes of a comeback victory and a spot in the Super League top six.
Despite Wakefield’s spirited fightback and strong home form—they had been undefeated at the DIY Kitchens Stadium since April—the Leopards held firm. Six minutes from time, Leigh’s Edwin Ipape and McNamara combined brilliantly to create the opening for Ofahengaue, who crashed over near the posts. McNamara’s conversion restored Leigh’s lead to 24-20. Wakefield pressed hard in the dying minutes, with Jowitt denied a try close to the line by resolute defense, but Leigh’s defense held, sealing a hard-fought win.
The match was a showcase for Leigh’s overseas recruitment prowess, which has been hailed as the best in Super League. David Armstrong’s devastating broken play, Tesi Niu’s constant threat, and Ofahengaue’s late-game heroics highlighted the quality brought in by the club. Coach Adrian Lam’s side continues to blend skill and grit, with the half-back partnership between McNamara and Lachlan Lam proving effective, though the return of Gareth O’Brien next weekend may complicate selection decisions.
Wakefield’s Mike McMeeken was outstanding once again, demonstrating why he is in contention for England’s 17-man squad. His leadership and defensive work throughout the season have been pivotal for the club, especially amid injury challenges. Wakefield’s efforts, however, continue to be marred by narrow defeats; this was their fifth loss in 2025 by four points or fewer, a concerning trend that could jeopardize their play-off ambitions.
Josh Charnley’s role for Leigh remains uncertain, with the veteran left out of the squad and designated as 18th man, hinting at a potential future away from the club. Meanwhile, the match also reflected the intense rivalry and fine margins that define Super League competition, with both sides pushing each other to the limit.
Wakefield’s inability to capitalize on their comeback and clinch vital points leaves them one point shy of the play-off places. Their upcoming fixtures against defending champions Wigan Warriors and league leaders Hull KR will be stern tests, emphasizing the importance of every point dropped in tight encounters like this.
For Leigh, the victory solidifies their standing in the top four and showcases their resilience and tactical nous under Adrian Lam. The team’s spine players, including McNamara, Lam, and Ofahengaue, impressed with their composure and skill, especially in the closing stages of a tense encounter.
Overall, the match was a gripping contest that combined high-quality rugby league with a deeply human story of courage and community support. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on the positives while addressing the fine details that can make the difference between victory and defeat.
