The Final Charge

Around 12 months ago, it looked likely that the Super League season was building towards its natural crescendo. Hull KR v Wigan in the Grand Final. And so it proved.

Such was the duopoly, I had to check who finished 3rd in 2025 (it was Leigh, if you're interested).

This year feels different. Barring something very unexpected, the top 6 is settled. What is not settled is the order.

Each side appears fallible and the gap between 1 and 6 feels less than in recent years.

Leeds have been fantastic throughout 2026. Just 5 losses in Super League so far and the most consistent side.

But in recent weeks, there have been wobbles. Firstly, throwing away a lead to lose to Castleford. And lately their perfect home record falls to Leigh.

Jake Connor has reached heights in the last two years that I did not know he could reach. But it is also true that the gap between his best and his worst is stark.

Leeds' impressive home record means they will feel confident of an Old Trafford return, if they can secure a home semi final.

Wigan sit second, stalking Leeds, and are the current favourites.

Some of their performances in league and cup in 2026 have been exceptional. They seem over the early season blips.

But there are flaws. Conceding 18 points to Toulouse at home a few weeks ago, a tendency to fall behind. It's not vintage.

Wigan also have the hardest run in by far. One slip, they may finish 3rd and a run to Old Trafford gets tougher.

I think Wigan at their best beat any other contender and handsomely. Can they peak when it matters?

Warrington have gone from 8th in 2025 to two points behind the league leaders in 2026 with four games to go.

It is a run that has lacked its deserved praise. George Williams is back from injury and was imperious against Hull KR on Tuesday night. I haven't been as excited about an emerging talent as I have for Ewan Irwin in years.

Warrington have a very kind run in and a top 2 finish is a very real possibility. Top spot is unlikely but not fanciful.

I suspect this year may be too soon for Warrington, who are still prone to off days. If they come 3rd, are they good enough to beat Leeds or Wigan away in a potential semi final?

If that happens, they'd need to negotiate a tricky preliminary tie too. But 2026 feels a pressure-free hit for a young side.

The excitement of a few weeks ago surrounding Wakefield has cooled with consecutive home defeats to Leeds and St Helens.

They also have a tough run in but still look secure in the six. Title contenders? Probably not. But better than last year and that's a success.

The current champions have at times looked a shadow of their former selves in 2026. Weak defence against Warrington on Tuesday made you think whether you were even watching the same side.

The squad has the talent to cause problems in the play offs. They will need to reach a level rarely seen in 2026 to actually do that.

Leigh are currently 6th but laid a marker with an impressive win at Leeds last week.

To prevent Leeds from scoring a second half try was the most impressive aspect of an all round great performance.

Saying that, 6th isn't far off mid table. And if Leigh stay there, the route to Old Trafford could be brutal.

In this play off system, a side has only reached the Grand Final once in six years from outside the top 2. So it matters where you finish.

That's why this final month of the regular season could be so consequential. On to the final charge!