St Helens ruthlessly ended Salford’s fairytale journey to the Super League Grand Final to win their first title in five seasons in a pulsating decider at Old Trafford. Having finished top of the table by a record 16-point margin this season, the Saints arrived here heavy favourites against a Red Devils side who have defied both the odds and the expectations of many experts, to reach the final for the first time.
However, there would be no repeat of the Saints’ surprise defeat to Warrington in the Challenge Cup final here. Led by imperious performances from front-row duo Alex Walmsley and Luke Thompson, St Helens were simply too strong and dynamic for their opponents – as they have been for most of this record-breaking season.
Victory means Justin Holbrook’s reign as coach ends in fitting fashion, with the Australian – who is returning to the NRL to coach Gold Coast in 2020 – bringing the title back to the club for the first time since 2014.
Tries from Morgan Knowles and Zeb Taia, the latter coming from a wonderful set move from a scrum, put the Saints into a commanding 12-0 lead after half an hour, and at that stage Salford were struggling to cope with their opponents’ power. However, Jake Bibby’s try as the break approached halved the deficit and suddenly, it was game on once again.
The first try after half-time was always going to be decisive, and when Mark Percival scored it, collecting his own kick to make it 18-6, it put the Saints back in control. There were chances for the Red Devils to reduce the arrears, but some magnificent defending kept them at bay.
And when Lachlan Coote continued his perfect record from the tee with a penalty to make it 20-6, it was clear there would be no way back for Salford. To their credit, they fought until the very end but by the time Coote kicked another penalty and Tommy Makinson added a drop goal in the closing stages, St Helens, Holbrook and their supporters knew this would be their night.