Super League Semi Final: Leeds Rhinos vs St Helens

Leeds Rhinos defeated St Helens in a tight affair on Friday night to book their place in the Super League Grand final, taking a 20-13 victory at Headingley Carnigie stadium.

The win gives the Rhinos a chance of completing the treble in the Grand final next week, after having already secured this seasons Challenge Cup final and Super League Leaders’ Shield.

Leeds didn’t win the easy way, and went into the half time interval with St Helens leading 9-8. James Roby opened the scoring before the Rhinos’ Zak Hardaker hit back with a try of his own – but St Helens went into the break with their lead courtesy of a drop goal from Luke Walsh.

The Rhinos then found themselves five points behind when Mark Percival scored a try, which seemed to ignite the fight in the hearts of the Leeds players.

Ryan Hall’s try took the Rhinos into the lead, before Kallum Watkins scored a late try to put the match out of sight, breaking the hearts of the St Helens’ players and fans at the same time.

St Helens coach Keiron Cummingham told the press after the loss he was proud of every single one of his players.

“I really feel for my boys, for large points we were the better team. People really hung in there and we fought for each other. I’m proud of every one of those players.”

Whilst winning Leeds prop Jamie Peacock praised the battling spirit of his successful teammates.

“What a group to play with. We never know when we’re beaten or when to quit. It’s a pleasure to play with such a tough bunch of blokes.

“Saints are a great side, tenacious and tough, and they should take a lot of heart from that.

“It’s the big one next week and anything can happen.”

Leeds will now face Wigan Warriors in the Grand Final on October 10th at Old Trafford, after the Warriors defeated the Huddersfield Giants 32-8, ensuring they reached their third successive final.