Wakefield Trinity have progressed to the semi-finals of the Super League playoffs for the first time, overcoming Leigh Leopards with a 26-16 victory. The win came despite Emre Guler being sent off with 20 minutes remaining.
Trinity, who have been revitalised under owner Matt Ellis and head coach Daryl Powell, have moved from the Championship to within 80 minutes of a Super League Grand Final appearance in three years. They will now face either Wigan Warriors or Leeds Rhinos for a place at Old Trafford.
Wakefield started strongly, taking an early lead from a Max Jowitt penalty. Tyson Smoothy then scored the first try, followed by Tom Johnstone touching down to make it 12-0. Leigh narrowed the gap before half-time with a try from David Armstrong, making it 12-6.
In the second half, Isaiah Vagana and Caius Faatili scored for Wakefield, extending their lead to 24-6. Although Guler's red card and a try from Lachlan Lam gave Leigh a brief resurgence, a penalty from Jowitt helped Wakefield secure the win. Innes Senior scored a late consolation for Leigh.