Key moments
In a gripping encounter at BrewDog Stadium on April 3, 2026, St Helens triumphed over Wigan Warriors with a score of 34-24 in the much-anticipated Good Friday derby. This match not only showcased the fierce rivalry between the two teams but also marked Wigan’s first defeat of the season, ending their impressive winning streak of 15 games.
The game unfolded dramatically, with Wigan leading 12-10 at halftime. However, St Helens displayed remarkable resilience, scoring an astonishing 24 points in the final ten minutes to secure the victory. This comeback was particularly impressive given that St Helens was missing over ten first-team regulars due to injury and suspension, highlighting the depth and character of their squad.
Bill Leyland, who made his Super League debut in this match, expressed his excitement, stating, “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 enthusiasm encapsulates the emotional weight of this historic rivalry, known as the biggest derby in rugby league.
Wigan’s coach, Matt Peet, reflected on the disappointment of the loss, particularly as his team had established a lead. He remarked, “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.” Peet acknowledged St Helens’ relentless attack, stating, “You’ve got to credit St Helens. They kept moving the ball and kept asking questions of us.”
The match was not without controversy, featuring several disallowed tries after video referee intervention, which added to the tension and drama of the encounter. Fans at BrewDog Stadium witnessed a thrilling spectacle, with the sold-out crowd fervently supporting their teams throughout the contest.
This victory for St Helens also marked their first Good Friday win over Wigan at BrewDog Stadium since 2019, a significant milestone that adds to the storied history of this rivalry. The last away win for Wigan in this derby was a decade ago, underscoring the challenges they have faced in this fixture.
As the dust settles on this thrilling match, the implications are significant for both teams. Wigan relinquished their top spot in the Super League standings, while St Helens demonstrated their ability to rise to the occasion despite adversity. Coach Paul Rowley praised his team’s character, 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.”
With the season still in its early stages, this match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of rugby league and the fierce competition within the Super League. As both teams look ahead, the rivalry between Saints and Warriors promises to deliver more thrilling encounters in the future.