In what many have called the best Grand Final so far, Leeds won a hard fought contest. The opening 20 minutes were score free in an arm wrestle in adverse, wet conditions. Saints were first to score from a penalty though Leeds, through Sinfield were equal. Rob Burrow was introduced from the bench injecting pace and scoring Leeds first try, a solo effort that put Leeds ahead, Sinfield converted and Leeds went in as half time leaders.
Saints got off to a blinding start when the teams returned putting in 6 sets of 6 tackles that Leeds defended well. A try was clearly scored though the video ref did not give it but a 2nd, only picked up on a disbuted coverance from replayed footage was allowed bringing Saints level. All posetion went Saints way and another try took them in to the lead. Many pundits had Leeds dead and buried but Sinfield rallied the troops and Burrow created the next Leeds try. Ice cool Sinfield converted.
Leeds scored 2 more which flattered the scoreline, Saints were worthy runners up.
Rob Burrow took all 35 votes for man of the match.
Leeds began the season with poor form. Most, including many of thier own fans had written them off. Some even calling for the head of Brian MacDermott. As the sole British coach amongst the top teams, some felt he had much to prove. Todays Guardian ran in intreguing collemn where he stated his theories on Northern men and thier attitudes of being 'one of the lads'. I believe he is right. The proof of the pudding lies in tonights result. No team has won the comptition from finishing 5th before nor will any soon.
Including Leeds cup run, fnishing as close losing finallists, we have played each weekend for 36 weeks against superleague opposition. More games than any other team. No one gave Leeds a chance bar stalwart followers and Saints fans.
Tonights game heald none of the needle some do. I would like to send genuine heartfelt handshakes to all Saints fans. Few thought Saints would be there either. Each week, both sets of fans have had to hear the press throwing plaudits to Warrington and Wigan but where were they tonight? watching at home I hope.
St Helens have competed in the last 5 finals as losers through many team changes and coaches. I imagine thier feelings are somewhat like ours were during the years when Wigan repeatedly won the Challene Cup, often with Leeds as opposition. In none of the four grand finals we have beaten them in have they been anything but a cigarrette papers thickness from winning. Their sportsmanship tonight, in staying to applaud Leeds as winners was something I have seldom seen. Few have given Leeds credit for their achievements through the 4 finals we have played. Often interest has drifted from mainstream view once Wigan have been knocked out. I, for one feel that, though Leeds have not been given the recognition for their dominance, St Helens have recieved even for their achievement for producing, time and time again a team worthy of respect. In no other sport would a side of their stature go unrewarded.
This is a historic night for Leeds. We may wait another 3 decades to see a team of their like. Sinfeild, Burrow and MaGuire, along with Peacock, Webb, Ablett, Delaney, young Zack Hardaker in fact the entire staff have done us proud.
I shall treasure these memories for all my life.
Tears flow.
Words fail.
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