Wakefield Trinity delivered a commanding performance, defeating Bradford Bulls 52-12 in a Betfred Super League clash that saw them climb to second in the table. The victory was spearheaded by winger Tom Johnstone, who scored four tries, and Oliver Pratt, who added a hat-trick.
Johnstone, who had only managed three tries all season prior to this match, exploded into action with three scores in the first 18 minutes, surpassing 150 career tries in the process. His early dominance set the tone for a one-sided affair, with Wakefield racing to a 24-0 halftime lead. Cam Scott, Josh Rourke, and Seth Nikotemo also crossed the try line for the home side.
Bradford, struggling with injuries, found themselves overwhelmed from the outset. Despite brief second-half responses from Zac Fulton and Eliot Peposhi, who scored his first try for the Bulls, Wakefield's attacking flair proved too much. Pratt's three tries moved him to second in the league's try-scoring charts this season.
Wakefield coach Daryl Powell praised his team's attitude, stating, "I thought we were excellent in the first half. Some of the things they did today had a real sharpness about them, so I am pretty pleased with the boys." The win marks Wakefield's fifth consecutive Super League victory, solidifying their position as serious contenders.
Bradford coach Kurt Haggerty acknowledged the challenges his depleted squad faced, but Wakefield's clinical execution left no doubt about the outcome. Johnstone fittingly had the final say, scoring his fourth try late in the game—a first for him in Super League play—capping off a memorable individual and team performance.