For a quarter of a century, St Helens supporters have cherished the memory of Dwayne West’s legendary last-gasp try against Bradford Bulls in the 2000 playoffs. That moment was etched into rugby league folklore as one of the most dramatic finishes in Super League history. Few imagined such a feat could ever be repeated. Yet, 25 years on, the Saints delivered another miracle that will live long in the memory.
Facing Leeds Rhinos in a tense playoff eliminator, St Helens looked destined for an early exit. Trailing for most of the evening and down by eight points with less than 10 minutes to play, their season seemed all but over. Leeds had dominated large spells and appeared set for a semi-final showdown with Hull KR.
But St Helens have long carried a reputation for resilience, and once again they refused to bow out quietly. Jon Bennison’s late try and conversion cut the deficit to just two points, setting up a dramatic finale. When the full-time hooter sounded, Saints were awarded a penalty, and with nothing to lose, they launched one final desperate attack.
What followed was a breathtaking passage of play. The ball was kept alive through multiple hands, shifting across the pitch from left to right and back again, until Shane Wright found himself in position to dive over for the decisive score. Pandemonium erupted among the visiting fans, while Leeds players collapsed to the ground in disbelief as their season ended in heartbreaking fashion.
The match itself had been cagey before the grandstand finish. Leeds led 12-6 at half-time through tries from Chris Hankinson and James McDonnell, with Jonny Lomax replying for Saints. A Jake Connor penalty extended Leeds’ advantage to 14-6, and with time slipping away, it looked like the Rhinos were in control. Yet sport is rarely so straightforward.
The Saints’ remarkable comeback is already being compared to the fabled “Wide to West” try of 2000. That moment inspired a run all the way to the Grand Final, and history could yet repeat itself. Next up is a daunting semi-final against the league leaders Hull KR, but St Helens will approach the clash believing that nothing is impossible after Wright’s unforgettable intervention.
This was more than just a victory; it was a reminder of the drama and unpredictability that makes rugby league so compelling.
