In a dramatic showdown at BrewDog Stadium on April 3, 2026, St Helens emerged victorious against Wigan Warriors with a final score of 34-24. This match, part of the historic Good Friday derby, was not just a battle for points but a testament to the spirit and resilience of the St Helens team, who played with over ten first-team regulars sidelined due to injury and suspension.
The game began with Wigan taking an early lead, finishing the first half at 12-10. However, the tide turned dramatically in the final ten minutes, where St Helens scored an astonishing 24 points to clinch the match. This comeback was not only a display of skill but also a reflection of the team’s unwavering belief, as noted by coach Paul Rowley, who praised the character of his players amidst adversity.
Key moments
Bill Leyland, making his Super League debut, expressed his surreal feelings about participating in such a significant derby. “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 shared, highlighting the emotional weight of the occasion.
Despite the defeat, Wigan’s coach Matt Peet reflected on the match with disappointment, particularly given their position to win. “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,” he stated. Peet acknowledged St Helens’ relentless attack, saying, “You’ve got to credit St Helens. They kept moving the ball and kept asking questions of us.” This sentiment echoed the intensity of the rivalry, where each team pushes the other to their limits.
This match marked Wigan’s first defeat of the season, ending a 15-game winning streak and causing them to relinquish their top spot in the Super League. The significance of the Good Friday derby cannot be overstated; it is a historic rivalry that has captivated fans for decades. The last time Wigan won away at BrewDog Stadium on Good Friday was back in 2019, making this victory even more poignant for St Helens supporters.
The match was played in front of a sold-out crowd, underscoring the derby’s importance in the rugby league calendar. Fans witnessed not only a thrilling contest but also several disallowed tries after video referee intervention, adding to the drama of the evening. The atmosphere was electric, with both sets of supporters passionately backing their teams, a reminder of why this derby is often described as the biggest in rugby league.
As the dust settles from this exhilarating encounter, the reactions from players and coaches alike reflect the deep emotions tied to this rivalry. For St Helens, this victory is a moment to cherish, a testament to their resilience and determination. For Wigan, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead as they regroup and prepare for the next phase of the season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the implications of this match on the overall standings, but one thing is clear: the spirit of the Good Friday derby continues to thrive, bringing excitement and passion to rugby league fans everywhere.
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