AMANDA Wilkinson and her Wigan Warriors team had to endure some nerve-shredding moments before overcoming Leeds Rhinos 18-16 right at the death in the Women’s Super League Grand Final.

Wigan’s Ulverstonian head coach Wilkinson could do little but watch as the match at Manchester Regional Arena looked to be heading for golden-point extra time after Leeds had clawed their way back from 16-6 down to be level with four minutes to go.

However, a penalty for offside in the dying moments gave the Warriors the opportunity they needed and Charlotte Foley stepped up to kick the goal which proved enough to give them victory.

It was the culmination of an impressive year for Wilkinson’s team which has seen them come from being launched late last year to being crowned champions of the women’s game in this country in a relatively short space of time.

Leeds had been in front through a converted try, but Wigan quikcly clawed an unconverted try back when Rachel Thompson scored out wide.

A second unconverted try from Thompson saw the Warriors edge ahead at half time.

Georgia Wilson added a third unconverted score soon after the restart and Thompson went on to complete her hat-trick.

Two tries, one of which was converted, saw Leeds draw level as the clocked ticket down, but Foley held her nerve at the crucial moment to clinch the win.