The story unfolding at Wakefield Trinity is so remarkable you could think it was the premise of a Hollywood movie script. That would not be the first time that has happened at the club.
Rewind to 1963 and Richard Harris rolled into town to play the role of Frank Machin in 'This Sporting Life' - the adaptation of David Storey's novel centred on a coal miner turned rugby league star. Harris later became known for playing Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter movies as well as roles in films including The Field, A Man Called Horse, Cromwell, Unforgiven, and Gladiator.
Amongst the likes of Derek Turner, Neil Fox, Brian Briggs and Jack Wilkinson, Harris was to portray this rough diamond that a coach saw something in to become their star loose forward. Despite that, Wakefield's stars could see what the film was all about.
The rugby league angle centres on the fact the spirit, clear potential, and ferocity Harris' character Machin shows in his trial game in the side is enough to convince the coach he is worth a shot, that this player can be moulded from raw ability to fulfilled talent. It is something not too dissimilar to what is on display with many of the current star players in Wakefield's Grand Final side.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing