Leeds return to Super League summit with crushing win at St Helens

Leeds Rhinos secured their first victory over St Helens since March 2023 on Sunday, delivering a commanding 34-6 away win that returned them to the top of Super League on points difference.

Before kick-off, a minute's silence was observed at the ground in memory of rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston, who passed away recently. Once play began, Leeds wasted little time asserting control, with Chris Hankinson opening the scoring after a sharp pass from Jake Connor.

Second-rower Cameron Smith produced the highlight of the match, breaking through the St Helens defence to score an outstanding individual try in the first half. Leeds added a further score before the break when Connor's handling set up Ash Handley, who fed Harry Newman for an unopposed run to the line. With Connor's conversion, the Rhinos led by 18 points at half-time.

In the second half, St Helens came close to scoring on several occasions, but Leeds continued to dominate proceedings. Ryan Hall touched down for his 357th career try following a fine offload from Jack Bird, extending the visitors' lead further. St Helens' only points came from a brilliant individual try by Jack Welsby, but Leeds responded quickly, with Handley finishing off a Connor grubber kick before Brodie Croft crossed for his 28th try of the season.

The defeat represents a significant blow to St Helens' hopes of reaching this season's play-offs. The club remains two points behind sixth-placed Hull KR with only two matches left to play, meaning they must win both remaining fixtures to avoid missing the play-offs for the first time. Leeds, meanwhile, will face second-placed Wigan next Saturday in a match that will decide the League Leaders' Shield.