Wakefield Trinity head coach Daryl Powell was thrilled with his side’s fighting spirit until the very end, but admitted that they need to improve to keep pushing for a Super League play-off spot.
The 15-14 victory over Leeds Rhinos takes them back into the top six over Hull FC, who play on Saturday, but Powell was pleased to get a result on Thursday over one of the best sides in the competition.
Mason Lino’s drop goal in the final minute secured the win, and the Wakefield Trinity boss said he thought it was a great finish to a scrappy game.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the win, he said:Â “It was a tight game, wasn’t it? With six or seven minutes left, we were under a little bit of pressure.
“We hadn’t been great down there; we had a lot of pressure and couldn’t convert.
“I thought Leeds defended really well, and we found a way to get there in the end. It was a great finish.”
When asked what message he sent out to his side following Brodie Croft’s missed drop goal attempt, he added:Â “Just hold your nerve, really. I think that’s all you can say to the boys. You train all the time, and these situations, and Mason nailed it.”
Wakefield Trinity boss on where this side can go in 2025 Super League
It’s looking like Wakefield will be scrapping with Hull FC for the final play-off spot, unless Warrington Wolves have a late-season resurgence or one of the teams in the top five has a dip in form.
However, Powell said his side is taking it week by week, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to beat any side.
He finished:Â “We’re still in a battle. Hull have a big game this weekend, and they’re going well.
“It’ll be a challenge right to the end, so we’ve just got to keep turning up for each other and play a little bit better than we did tonight, particularly in attacking positions.
“That’s a scrap that tonight, Leeds are such a good team and we’re pleased to get over the top of them.”
FULL TIME: Wakefield Trinity 15-14 Leeds Rhinos
A last-gasp drop goal from Mason Lino wins an absolute classic against the Rhinos!#UpTheTrin pic.twitter.com/ZvAG5HyPDf
— Wakefield Trinity (@WTrinityRL) July 24, 2025
