Classy Cas roll back years with Wig wham
CASTLEFORD turned the clock back 28 years in putting holders Wigan out of the Challenge Cup in an absorbing quarter- final at the DW Stadium.
The Tigers showed their sparkling Super League form is no fluke by pulling off a thoroughly- deserved triumph to inflict on Wigan their first home Challenge Cup defeat since 1986.
Castleford were also the victors that day on their way to lifting the trophy at Wembley for the last time.
The Tigers were clinging to a six- point lead when ex- Wigan prop Lee Jewitt burst through a tiring Warriors defence to score his first try for the club on only his third appearance three minutes from the end to seal a famous win.
Wigan coach Shaun Wane had accused the Yorkshiremen of “disrespect” in the build- up, but the Tigers had every right to feel confident after winning their last two matches against the Warriors and they were good value for the hat- trick.
Threatening
Video ref Ben Thaler angered the travelling fans by disallowing Cas stand- off Luke Dorn’s try on 28 minutes for a slight obstruction.
But Thaler gave the green light to James Clare’s touchdown two minutes later.
Holders Wigan attempted to raise the pace of the game in the second half and they looked more threatening.
Winger Joe Burgess failed to take Liam Farrell’s pass with the line beckoning and Sean O’Loughlin got over the line, only to have the ball knocked from his grasp.
Castleford were grateful to Oliver Holmes for a last- ditch tackle on George Williams.
The pressure finally told on 62 minutes when Farrell touched down for Wigan’s 100th try of the season.
Cas winger Kirk Dixon went over for all- important try with 10 minutes left Jewitt finished the job, barging over from close range.