York Knights came agonisingly close to another Betfred Super League shock but were edged out 23-22 by Wigan Warriors in a gripping Thursday night clash at the Brick Community Stadium.
The newly-promoted Knights raced into a 14-point lead through early tries from David Nofoaluma and Paul Vaughan, only for Wigan to fight back after Ata Hingano was sin-binned late in the first half. Hingano’s temporary departure sapped York’s momentum and allowed Wigan to haul themselves back into contention.
Liam Marshall’s tries — including a double — helped Wigan cut the deficit to four at the break. In the second half, Noah Hodkinson’s fine solo effort put Wigan ahead shortly after the hour, before Adam Keighran extended their lead with the boot. Keighran finished with six points, having converted his try and added further goal-kicking contributions, and Harry Smith’s drop goal looked to have put the result beyond doubt.
Hingano was central to the drama throughout. He scored late to set up a tense finale and then misfired on a pass that might have allowed Danny Richardson a chance at a match-levelling drop goal in the closing stages. Earlier, Hingano’s yellow card arguably cost York the chance to build on their shock opening-day win over Hull KR.
York threatened right to the end. Sam Cook’s break created the platform for Hingano’s finish, and Richardson’s kicking kept them close — briefly drawing level after Wigan were penalised. But as Richardson prepared to attempt what could have been a match-winning kick, Hingano’s loose pass handed Wigan possession and preserved their unbeaten start.
Both teams were missing key players through injury: Wigan without Bevan French and Jai Field, and York adjusting to the long-term absence of captain Liam Harris.
Other notable moments included a near-miss for Marshall as he was denied a hat-trick by a last-ditch Sam Wood tackle, and a moment of quality from Jack Farrimond that set up Keighran’s score. The contest underlined York’s threat this season and Wigan’s resilience in overcoming a shaky start.
2026 Super League – key dates and what to look out for
– Super League’s 30th birthday: Thu Mar 26: Castleford Tigers vs Bradford Bulls, 8pm (Sky Sports)
– Rivals Round: April 3–5
– Super League in Paris: Sat Jun 6: Catalans Dragons vs Wigan Warriors (Paris), 6:30 UK (Sky Sports)
– Magic Weekend: July 4–5
– Rivals Round reversed: July 23–26
– Elimination Play-offs: September 19–20
– Play-off semi-finals: September 26–27
– Grand Final: October 3, Old Trafford
Sky Sports will show every Super League game live this season, including two exclusive live matches each round, with remaining fixtures available via Sky Sports+.