Rhinos fire warning shot to rivals with win over Saints
Friday, 28 Mar 2008 21:58
Ali Lauitiiti scored the Rhinos' opening try
World champions Leeds earned a hard-fought 14-10 win over St Helens in Super League at Knowsley Road.
In a repeat of last year's grand final, the Rhinos snatched victory thanks to a try in each half from Ali Lauitiiti and Luke Burgess while skipper Kevin Sinfield booted over three goals in treacherous conditions.
The Saints, who trailed 6-8 at the break, scored a try through Richard Wellens while Sean Long kicked three goals.
The win for the reigning champions puts them four points ahead of Warrington at the top of the table while the Saints remain in fourth spot.
Elsewhere, Wigan kept up the pressure on the leaders after a narrow 8-4 win over Wakefield at the JJB Stadium.
The Warriors, who led 6-4 at the break, were led to victory by a try from skipper Sean O'Loughlin while full-back Pat Richards slotted over two goals.
Tony Martin kicked over two first-half penalties for the Wildcats but they were unable to break down a miserly Warriors defence.
Wigan's second win in a row keeps them in joint second place after nine games while the Wildcats remain in tenth position. 