Last-gasp drama as Wigan equal record

WIGAN clinched the World Club Challenge for a record-equalling fifth time after surviving last-gasp video drama to confirm a 16-12 victory over triple-defending NRL champions Penrith Panthers at a sold-out DW Stadium last night.

- MARK STANIFORTH

WIGAN WARRIORS 16

PENRITH PANTHERS 12

Tries from Abbas Miski, Kruise Leeming and Jake Wardle, plus four points from the boot of Harry Smith, ensured Matt Peet's men emulated Super League rivals St Helens, who edged the same team in Sydney one year ago.

Yet in an absorbing clash in which the lead swung in a different direction five times, Wigan were forced into an agonising wait for confirmation of their victory after Taylan May crashed over on the final hooter only for replays to determine he had been bundled into touch.

As Wigan celebrated the bigscreen verdict, the agony was evident on the face of Penrith's resident superstar Nathan Cleary, who could not prevent his side, all but three of whom also started in the golden point loss to Saints, failing in their quest to land the trophy for the first time.