St Helens delivered a potentially pivotal performance in their 18-4 victory over Leeds Rhinos, a result that may prove to be a turning point in their rollercoaster 2025 Super League campaign. The win not only halted Leeds’ five-game winning run but also eased the growing pressure on head coach Paul Wellens, whose credentials had come under scrutiny following an inconsistent start to the season.
The opening exchanges hinted at more of the same for St Helens: ordinary, error-prone, and lacking conviction. Yet it was a single defensive act not a try or a goal that became the emotional heartbeat of the match. Teenager Harry Robertson’s stunning cover tackle on veteran winger Ryan Hall denied what looked to be a certain interception try and preserved the Saints’ early lead. It was a moment that electrified the Totally Wicked Stadium and galvanized the home side.
Before that, two Kyle Feldt penalties and a well-constructed Deon Cross try had nudged St Helens ahead 8-0 at halftime. The momentum could easily have shifted had Hall crossed the line, but Robertson’s intervention turned the tide. Leeds briefly showed life when Riley Lumb scored shortly after the break, trimming the deficit to 8-4. However, their execution and energy fell well below their usual standards.
Owen Dagnall, another promising youngster, extended Saints’ lead with a slick finish off a scrum move his second try in as many games pushing the score to 14-4. Leeds’ response was muted, as handling errors and miscommunications robbed them of attacking rhythm. A late try from Tristan Sailor on the final hooter sealed a memorable night for the Saints.
The victory marked St Helens’ fourth win in five matches, but unlike previous results, this one came against a genuine title contender. It was the kind of performance that could rekindle belief among fans and within the squad that the 2025 season still holds promise. Coach Wellens praised his side’s toughness and resolve, especially the defensive display that held Leeds to a mere four points.
Whether this marks a genuine turning point or a brief respite remains to be seen. But on this evidence, with their young talents stepping up and the team showing renewed grit, St Helens are not ready to fade quietly into the background of Super League just yet.
