Key moments
In a thrilling showdown on April 3, 2026, St Helens emerged victorious against Wigan Warriors with a score of 34-24 at BrewDog Stadium, marking a significant moment in the ongoing rugby league season. This match, part of the historic Good Friday derby, showcased the fierce rivalry between the two teams, drawing a sold-out crowd eager to witness the action.
The game began with Wigan Warriors taking an early lead, finishing the first half at 12-10. However, St Helens, despite missing over ten first-team regulars due to injury and suspension, demonstrated remarkable resilience. They turned the tide in the final ten minutes, scoring an impressive 24 points to clinch the win, leaving Wigan with their first defeat of the season.
Bill Leyland, who made his Super League debut during this match, expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s surreal. Playing such a big derby. My team [Hull KR] won in the game before, so it’s a double win for me. I’m glad to bring it home for all of these fans, it’s pretty surreal.” Leyland’s debut in such a high-stakes game added to the emotional weight of the victory for St Helens.
Wigan’s coach, Matt Peet, reflected on the match, stating, “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.” His sentiments echoed the frustration felt by the Warriors, who had previously enjoyed a strong start to the season, including a 15-match winning streak.
As the match progressed, several disallowed tries were a point of contention, with video referee interventions impacting the flow of the game. This added an extra layer of drama to an already intense rivalry. The last time Wigan had won away in the Good Friday derby was in 2019, making this loss particularly poignant for the team and its supporters.
St Helens’ coach, Paul Rowley, praised his team’s performance, stating, “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.” His words highlighted the determination and spirit of the St Helens squad, who faced significant challenges leading up to the match.
Wigan’s relinquishment of their top spot in the Super League after this match adds to the stakes as the season progresses. The Good Friday derby is not just a game; it is a celebration of community and rivalry that brings fans together, and this match was no exception.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, both teams will look to regroup and prepare for their upcoming fixtures. The excitement surrounding the Saints vs Warriors matchup continues to resonate within the rugby league community, reminding everyone of the passion and intensity that defines this sport.
