Super League Grand Final: Catalans Dragons 10-12 St Helens: Saints win three in a row

3 years ago 37

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Catalans (4) 10
Tries: McMeeken Goals: Maloney 3
St Helens (6) 12
Tries: Naiqama 2 Goals: Coote 2

St Helens captured a third Super League Grand Final triumph in a row to shatter Catalans Dragons' hopes in a tense and gripping showpiece at Old Trafford.

A hard-fought showing allowed Saints to claim a record-equalling eighth final win to draw level with Leeds Rhinos.

Kevin Naiqama got the first try for St Helens but two penalties from James Maloney kept Catalans in touch at 6-4.

Mike McMeeken touched down for Catalans but centre Naiqama ended his Saints career on a high with the winning try.

Around 1,000 Catalans had travelled over from France to see their team in a maiden Grand Final, but they left heartbroken as St Helens' big-game experience told in front of a largely red and white following.

The Rhinos - in 2007, 2008 and 2009 - are the only other side to win the domestic competition three times on the trot.

Saints learn their lesson

Saints were pipped to the Leader Leaders' Shield by Saturday's opponents but collected the season's big prize by just two points in a breathless encounter.

It was tough and brutal throughout and fittingly centre Naiqama and full-back Lachlan Coote were the only points scorers with both players appearing in their final game.

Naiqama is returning to Australia and his tries were superbly taken efforts, the first with a majestic step to burrow over and the match-winning effort in the second half by collecting Jonny Lomax's kick and sliding home.

That try came in front of the Catalans' fans, who were left deflated having waved their yellow and red flags during the contest.

Coote, who is joining beaten semi-finalist Hull KR next season, added two crucial conversions with the latter edging his side ahead.

Saints had 12 minutes to hold out and displayed their wealth of experience in their 13th Grand Final, seeing the game out without giving the Dragons a sniff.

They had learnt their lesson from last month when they conceded three tries and a golden-point dropgoal in the final four minutes when they were beaten by the very same opposition.

More to follow.