Key moments
In a gripping encounter on April 3, 2026, St Helens emerged victorious against Wigan Warriors with a final score of 34-24 at BrewDog Stadium. This match marked a significant moment in the historic Good Friday derby, as St Helens showcased their determination by scoring 24 points in the final 10 minutes, overcoming a halftime deficit of 12-10.
The match began with Wigan Warriors taking an early lead, with their halftime score of 12 points reflecting their strong start. However, St Helens, despite missing over ten first-team regulars due to injury and suspension, demonstrated remarkable resilience. The sold-out crowd at BrewDog Stadium witnessed a thrilling comeback, which included several disallowed tries after video referee intervention, adding to the drama of the match.
Bill Leyland made his Super League debut in this match, contributing to the excitement surrounding the event. Leyland expressed his feelings after the game, stating, “It’s surreal. Playing such a big derby… I’m glad to bring it home for all of these fans, it’s pretty surreal.” His debut added a personal touch to the already intense rivalry.
Wigan Warriors, who had previously enjoyed a winning streak of 15 games, faced their first defeat of the season in this match. Coach Matt Peet reflected on the loss, saying, “I’m very disappointed to lose the game, particularly in the manner we did having gotten ourselves into a position to win it without ever really being at our best for a long period.” This statement underscores the unexpected turn of events that unfolded during the match.
St Helens’ coach, Paul Rowley, praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the challenges they faced. He remarked, “That was very special. The adversity we were under – before and during the game. The belief and character of the group has never been questioned.” This sentiment highlights the spirit and tenacity that St Helens displayed, particularly given their depleted squad.
The significance of this match extends beyond just the scoreline. It was noted that Wigan had not won at BrewDog Stadium on Good Friday in a decade, making this victory even sweeter for St Helens fans. The last away win for Wigan in this derby was back in 2019, adding to the historical context of this event.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Wigan Warriors relinquished their top spot in the Super League standings, while St Helens celebrated a much-needed victory. The match has reignited the fierce rivalry between these two clubs, with fans eagerly anticipating their next meeting.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this match on the teams’ future performances, but the reactions from players and coaches alike indicate a pivotal moment in the season for both clubs.