Leeds book final place

Last updated at 14:46 03 October 2005


Champions Leeds held off a thrilling late fightback from St Helens to book a second-successive engage Super League Grand Final appearance.

The Rhinos looked on course for victory at saturated Knowsley Road as they ground out a 19-0 lead with 11 minutes remaining.

But they were shaken by the inspired Jamie Lyon, who scored twice and set up another as Saints hit back in thrilling fashion. In the end Leeds, after tries from Danny McGuire, Danny Ward, Ali Lauitiiti and a Kevin Sinfield drop goal, just had enough.

Leeds drew first blood as McGuire capitalised on a strong tackle from Chris McKenna which forced the ball from Lyon's grasp.

Saints looked to have rode out a spell of Rhinos pressure after defending three successive sets of six but Chris McKenna's power proved too much for Lyon and McGuire accepted his 22nd try of the season.

The visitors held firm and extended their lead six minutes before the interval after Rob Burrow forced the Saints defence back. The ball was quickly recycled and Matt Diskin sent Ward - guilty of two earlier knock-ons - over from close range. Sinfield converted to make it 12-0.

Leeds maintained their dogged defensive approach and they gained a seemingly decisive grip on the match in the second half when Lauitiiti broke from deep for his side's third try.

The Kiwi second rower blocked a Jon Wilkin grubber kick deep inside his own half and scooped up to scamper 80 metres to the line. Sinfield's conversion extended the Rhinos' advantage to 18-0.

Sinfield gave his side further breathing space when he clipped over a drop goal 13 minutes from time but Saints were not done as Lyon took it upon himself to try to salvage the match.

The centre forced his way over in the corner after 69 minutes, added the touchline conversion and broke clear to send Ian Hardman over. Lyon was unable to convert but got on the end of a slick move to score again. He then narrowed the gap to three points by adding the goal.

Leeds will face the victors of Friday's clash between St Helens and Bradford.

Most watched Sport videos