Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves Renew Fierce Rivalry in Challenge Cup Final
Just 13.1 miles and a 34-minute drive or 52-minute train journey separate two of the biggest clubs in British rugby league, Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves. This Saturday, the fierce rivals will face off once again, this time in the prestigious Challenge Cup final.
The two clubs are among the most decorated teams in Challenge Cup history, collectively featuring in 52 finals (Wigan 33, Warrington 19) and lifting the trophy 29 times (Wigan 20, Warrington 9). While they have only met once before in the Challenge Cup final, the clubs have battled it out for silverware on numerous occasions over the years.
Wigan’s dominance over Warrington in finals is evident, with the Warriors holding an 11-1 record against the Wolves. The first meeting came in the 1948 Lancashire Cup final, which Wigan won 14-8, setting the tone for their extraordinary success in these high-stakes encounters.
Over the decades, the two clubs have faced off in several other finals, including the Lancashire Cup (1950, 1980, 1985, 1987) and the Regal Trophy (1995). Wigan’s golden era in the late 1980s and 1990s saw them claim victory over Warrington in three finals during that period, cementing their status as the dominant force in rugby league.
The lone Challenge Cup final between the sides took place in 1990, where Wigan continued their dominance with a 36-14 triumph. The most recent meetings have been in the Super League Grand Final, with Wigan emerging victorious in 2013, 2016, and 2018.
As the two clubs prepare to renew their fierce rivalry on the Challenge Cup stage, rugby league enthusiasts can expect an intriguing and high-stakes encounter between two of the sport’s most successful and storied franchises.
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