Warrington Wolves edged past St Helens in a tense Challenge Cup quarter-final, securing a 20-12 victory and booking a semi-final clash against Leigh Leopards. The match, held at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, was a showcase of grit, determination, and individual brilliance particularly from George Williams, whose late solo try proved decisive.
With both teams aiming to shake off inconsistent early-season form, the match promised intensity, and it delivered from the outset. These two clubs are steeped in Challenge Cup history and rivalry, and this encounter followed the familiar pattern of recent meetings: a hard-fought contest ultimately claimed by Warrington. This latest win marked the sixth consecutive victory over St Helens for Warrington, now under the guidance of head coach Sam Burgess.
The match was finely balanced throughout, with both sides trading early tries. Matt Dufty crossed for Warrington before Tristan Sailor responded for the visitors, leaving the score level at halftime. But injuries to key St Helens players during the first half forced a backline reshuffle that disrupted their rhythm and limited their attacking cohesion.
Warrington, by contrast, showed the steel that has become a trademark under Burgess’s leadership. The turning point arrived when Williams, always a central figure in Warrington’s attacking play, produced a moment of brilliance. With just two points separating the sides and the momentum seemingly with the visitors, Williams gathered a loose ball, spotted a weary defensive line, and cut through with a burst of pace and vision. His breakaway try not only put the game beyond reach but also highlighted why he is considered one of the finest players in Super League.
It was a performance that showcased his leadership as well as his skill. Earlier, Williams had also played a key role in extending Warrington’s lead, delivering a precise kick that allowed Ben Currie to score, pushing the hosts further ahead. Marc Sneyd added two goals to give them an eight-point cushion.
St Helens mounted a fightback, with Daryl Clark scoring against his former club to reduce the deficit. But while opportunities arose in the closing stages, their execution fell short. The critical chance came with just under ten minutes to play, as the Saints broke away but turned the ball over, allowing Williams to pounce and seal the game.
Warrington’s defensive resilience and their ability to seize crucial moments under pressure were evident. It’s a notable change from past seasons, where the club had a reputation for faltering in tight matches. Burgess’s arrival has sparked a culture shift, emphasizing accountability and togetherness, traits that were evident in this victory.
They now find themselves just one win away from a return to Wembley, hoping to go one step further than last year’s final defeat to Wigan. Standing in their path are Leigh Leopards, the 2023 winners, while the other semi-final pits Hull KR against Catalans Dragons. With momentum building and players like Williams in top form, Warrington have every reason to believe they can lift the trophy this time around.
The win also sends a clear message to the rest of the competition: Warrington are not just contenders, they are serious challengers, capable of delivering under pressure and producing match-winning moments when it matters most.
