In a stunning display of resilience, St Helens triumphed over Wigan Warriors 34-24 in the highly anticipated Good Friday derby held at BrewDog Stadium on April 3, 2026. This match not only marked a significant victory for St Helens but also ended Wigan’s undefeated streak this season, as they had previously won all their matches.

Wigan Warriors took an early lead, finishing the first half at 12-10, but St Helens mounted a remarkable comeback in the final ten minutes, scoring 24 points to secure their victory. The match was played in front of a sold-out crowd, amplifying the intensity of this historic rivalry.

Despite missing over ten first-team regulars due to injuries and suspensions, St Helens showcased their depth and determination. Bill Leyland, who made his Super League debut in this match, expressed his surreal feelings about participating in such a significant derby, 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.”

Coach Paul Rowley praised his team’s character, saying, “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.” This sentiment reflects the spirit of the team, which has been a hallmark of their recent performances.

On the other hand, Wigan’s coach Matt Peet expressed disappointment in the loss, particularly given their position leading into the final moments of the match. 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 also acknowledged the efforts of St Helens, crediting them for their relentless play: “You’ve got to credit St Helens. They kept moving the ball and kept asking questions of us.”

The match was not without its controversies, featuring several disallowed tries after video referee interventions, which added to the drama of the encounter. This derby has a rich history, and this particular match will be remembered for its thrilling finish and the resilience displayed by St Helens.

Historically, the Good Friday derby is one of the most significant events in rugby league, and this year was no exception. Wigan Warriors had not won at BrewDog Stadium on Good Friday in a decade, and this loss relinquished their top spot in the Super League standings. The last away win for Wigan in this derby was back in 2019, highlighting the significance of St Helens’ victory.

As the dust settles on this exhilarating match, the reactions from players and coaches alike underscore the emotional weight of the Good Friday derby. With St Helens emerging victorious, the rivalry continues to intensify, promising more thrilling encounters in the future.

The post Saints vs Warriors: St Helens Triumphs in Good Friday Derby appeared first on DG News Sport.