The final eight were brought together to see who would be good enough to win the grand final trophy. Wigan had already won the World Club Challenge, Challenge Cup and finished top of the league so hot favourites to do the domestic treble (international quadruple). However, any side could win the grand final.
Brief history: Over the previous ten years, St Helens had won it five times, Wigan three times and Leeds twice. Leeds last won in 2017, Saints 2022 and Wigan 2023 so the current holders going into the 2024 competition.
First round: Wigan and Hull KR got a bye for finishing in the top two places in the league. The other four played sudden death matches. Leigh prevailed over a dogged Salford 14-6 and Warrington snatched a 23-22 victory over an improved Saints, coming back from being 4-16 down and getting the crucial one pointer in extra time.
Semi finals: Wigan gave neighbours Leigh a lesson in finals football with a comprehensive drubbing to the tune of 38-0. Meanwhile, Hull KR took a 10-0 lead into the break and was nearly run down in the second half but got home 10-8. I thought then that KR was a notch below Wigan.
Grand final: Held at the famous Old Trafford Football ground, Wigan took a 7-0 lead at half time and went on to take it 9-2. I thought the difference in the score may have been wider but it was a close but in a way decisive victory for the Warriors.
The highlights for the match can be seen by clicking here.
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