St Helens were forced to leave Sewell Group Craven Park under a police escort after receiving a serious online terror threat during their Super League playoff semi-final defeat to Hull KR. The incident unfolded as the match progressed, creating tension behind the scenes despite the intense on-field action that saw Hull KR claim a 20-12 victory and secure a place in the Grand Final against Wigan Warriors.
According to the club, the threat was made via their official Instagram account and was reported immediately to both the St Helens and Hull KR ground safety officers. In response, local law enforcement and stadium security took swift action to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans in attendance. After the match concluded, a police cordon surrounded the St Helens team bus as players and officials boarded, with officers maintaining a visible presence around the vehicle. The team was then escorted safely out of the stadium and surrounding area under police supervision.
Head coach Paul Wellens was seen speaking with police officers after the final whistle as part of the initial response. The nature of the threat has not been publicly disclosed, but authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Both clubs are cooperating fully with the police and are refraining from further comment while inquiries continue.
The incident has raised concerns within the rugby league community about the growing issue of online threats targeting sports teams and athletes. Clubs across the Super League have been urged to review their digital security and reporting procedures to ensure that similar situations can be handled swiftly and effectively in the future.
Despite the unsettling circumstances, Hull KR’s players and supporters celebrated their victory, which sends them to a second consecutive Grand Final appearance. They will face Wigan Warriors at Old Trafford next Saturday in what promises to be a fiercely contested finale.
For St Helens, the focus has turned to player safety and mental wellbeing following the incident. The club emphasized that they are taking the matter with “the utmost seriousness” and will continue to cooperate with police as investigations progress. The rugby league world now watches closely for updates as authorities work to identify the source of the threat.
