LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a thrilling display of grit and determination, Wakefield Trinity managed to claw their way to a hard-fought 14-12 victory over Leeds Rhinos at Headingley, marking their triumphant return to the Super League from the Championship.
With a raucous crowd roaring them on, both teams started off the match in a physical and bruising fashion.
However, it was Wakefield who proved to be the dominant force in attack, with new recruits Mike McMeeken and Tom Johnstone causing havoc in the opening exchanges.
Their relentless pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Max Jowitt finished off a superb team move to crash over the try line, before coolly slotting home the conversion to give Wakefield a 6-0 lead.
Buoyed by their early success, Wakefield continued to press forward with their sharpness on the edges causing all sorts of problems for Leeds.
Jowitt soon grabbed his second try of the day, capitalizing on a scintillating break from Jake Trueman to extend Wakefield's lead to 10-0 after just half an hour.
Although Trinity had another try disallowed due to obstruction, they soon added more points through Mason Lino.
However, Leeds fought back with a try in the dying moments of the first half, courtesy of Harry Newman, narrowing the deficit to 14-6 at the break after Jake Connor's successful conversion.
Despite the heavens opening up and the scores remaining unchanged in the third quarter, Wakefield found themselves down to 12 men after Lino was sin-binned for a high tackle.
Yet, they weathered the storm from Leeds admirably and managed to hold firm until Lino's return, with no further points scored.
In a true display of determination and character, Wakefield held on for a hard-earned victory, signaling their intent to make a mark in the top flight.
The Super League is in for a thrilling season ahead with Wakefield Trinity back in the mix and ready to fight tooth and nail for glory.