St. Helens will take pride as they move forward from their recent knockout victory, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Betfred Challenge Cup with a decisive 22-14 triumph over Leeds Rhinos at the Totally Wicked Stadium. The match was more than just another game; for the Saints, it represented a chance to bounce back after they suffered their first defeat of the season just the previous week against Hull KR.
From the very beginning of the match, Leeds Rhinos looked to establish dominance as they aimed to shake off their own recent struggles. Coach Brad Arthur assembled his squad with hopes of revitalizing the team after their disappointing 11-0 defeat against Catalans Dragons. The Rhinos came out strong, with Jake Connor getting the first points of the evening, successfully converting a penalty after St. Helens’ Morgan Knowles infringed. The early momentum, though, would not last.
St. Helens found their footing as they began applying pressure on the Leeds defense. The Saints scored their first try when Kyle Feldt positioned himself perfectly to assist Joe Batchelor, who crossed the line after receiving the ball twice, displaying remarkable team play. Coach Paul Wellens emphasized the importance of resilience during the match, saying, “How we approach a big game is going to be really important for us.” This mindset was evident as his team regained control and dictated the pace of the game.
After heading to halftime with renewed confidence, St. Helens came roaring back. Harry Robertson stood out as the pivotal player for the Saints. He orchestrated their second try by evading Leeds’ attempts to tackle him and seamlessly setting up teammate Tristan Sailor, showcasing his growing impact as the season progresses. Wellens later remarked, “Harry just keeps getting back and getting stronger.”
Not resting on their laurels, the Saints continued to push forward, with George Delaney breaking through the Leeds line and resulting in another well-executed try from Jonny Lomax, who set up Matt Whitley for the score. Each try added layers of pressure on the Rhinos, who struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game.
Leeds did manage to respond late with efforts from Ash Handley and Harry Newman, but their attack was uninspired and lacked the cohesion necessary to seriously threaten St. Helens’ lead. The consistent pressure from the Saints had taken its toll on the Rhinos, leaving them struggling to break through the defensive screening set by St. Helens.
Following the match, Wellens expressed his satisfaction at how his team had managed to withstand Leeds' initial onslaught before rediscovering their composure. The stakes were high, and St. Helens knew they had to deliver, especially after disappointing outcomes earlier this season. “We are desperate to be successful,” Wellens stated, emphasizing the importance of competing at the highest levels, where every game could lead to greatness.
Looking forward, St. Helens preparation for the upcoming month will revolve around regaining momentum after mishaps earlier on. Their immediate challenge lies within the Super League as they switch focus to their match against Warrington Wolves next week, with thoughts of Wembley still very much alive.
Meanwhile, Leeds Rhinos face several decisions moving forward. While their squad has impressive names, like Lachlan Miller returning from injury and the experienced Ryan Hall proving his resilience, they will need more cohesive teamwork to balance their wins against unexpected losses. Coach Brad Arthur will have to reevaluate his strategy and tactics as the season progresses.
This clash has been Rippled with the underlying intensity as both teams desperately pursued victory. Yet, it’s St. Helens who will carry with them not just this win, but the soaring hope of restoring their once-dominant legacy within the rugby sphere.
Through contrasting fortunes, the spirit of competition flourished, with St. Helens securing the future they desire and Leeds learning pivotal lessons on their road forward. Regardless of the outcome, each team leaves this skirmish with stories to tell and plans for developement as the cup season marches on.