Saints reach grand final after narrow win
The Saints go marching on after seeing off Hull
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Friday, 29, Sep 2006 10:02
St Helens have reached the Super League grand final after a low-scoring 12-8 win over Hull in the elimination semi-final at Knowsley Road.
The Saints, who are favourites to be crowned champions after notching up 24 wins in the regular season, were led by tries from Ade Gardner and Francis Meli.
Star man Jamie Lyon kicked two crucial goals for the hosts with both sides tied 6-6 at the break after a tense first-half.
Hull, who are the only side to have beaten St Helens at home this season, scored a try from Kirk Yeaman while Paul Cooke kicked two goals.
St Helens opened the scoring through Gardner in the first half in controversial circumstances with the video referee confirming the try despite an apparent knock-on from Lyon.
But Yeaman bagged his 22nd try of the season in the 25th minute for the Black and White's which was followed by Cooke's touchline conversion.
New Zealander Meli sealed victory for the Saints with a second-half try which Lyons converted and despite another goal from Cooke, the hosts held on.
While St Helens book their place at Old Trafford next month, Hull have another chance to reach the final next week when they play the winner of tomorrow's game between Bradford and Warrington.