Wakefield Trinity issue apology after match abandonment against Wigan Warriors

Wakefield Trinity have issued an apology after floodlight failure saw their game against Super League Champions Wigan Warriors abandoned.

Despite their relegation at the end of last season, the game was a triumphant moment for the club playing in front of their redeveloped stadium for the first time including their new stand which sold out for the game.

It marked the first home game since Matthew Ellis’ takeover of the club ahead of a new era whilst it was also Daryl Powell’s first game in charge at Belle Vue after running Leeds Rhinos close in the Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge on Boxing Day.

However, this triumphant moment was undercut by the floodlight failure. This started in the first half before continuing into halftime with the floodlights switching off for short periods before turning back on.

This continued into the second half culminating in the match abandonment. Wakefield issued an apology saying on X:

“The match here at the DIY Kitchens Stadium has been abandoned due to floodlight failure.

“We apologise for the issues this evening.”

A sad way for Matty Ashurst’s testimonial to end.

Wakefield Trinity impress against Wigan Warriors

Wakefield impressed in the fixture despite what happened at the end and led 20-12 when the match was abandoned with just 17 minutes left.

Wakefield trialled 6-0 early on before a try from Renouf Atoni levelled matters as he powered over the line.

Then Jermaine McGillvary gave Wakefield a 16-6 lead with a brace of tries finishing moves nicely down the touchline finishing in the corner.

In the second half, Wigan battled back with former Wakefield star Ryan Hampshire chipping over for a lovely try and converting to make it 16-12.

But before the game was abandoned McGillvary completed his hat-trick to make it 22-12 in an encouraging display from Wakefield ahead of the new season with the club favourites for promotion in 2024 with the club having strength on and off the field.