St Helens battle to Grand Final victory over Wigan

St Helens have triumphed 14-6 over Wigan at Old Trafford to win this season’s Grand Final.

The game began in controversy, when Wigan’s Welsh international prop Ben Flower was sent off, after landing two punches on Lance Hohaia.

It looked like he was reacting to an elbow from a Saints man, but his reaction earned a justified red card.

One of the punches was landed when the Saints stand-off was on the floor, and it was little wonder that the Kiwi took no further part in the game.

Wigan fought hard, but Saints had enough resilience and steel to see off some real quality in attack from the Warriors.

St Helens hooker James Roby was awarded the Harry Sunderland Trophy as man of the match.

“You’ve got to give full credit to Wigan to play the way they did with 12 men,” he told Sky Sports after the game.

“They threw the ball about and were testing us, right up to the last minute.

“We had to dig in there and luckily enough we had it in the tank.

“It’s amazing. We deserve this.”

St Helens had to play 78 minutes with no recognised halfbacks. Veteran Paul Wellens stepped up to play in the halves.

“I’m so delighted for this group of players,” he said.

“I’ve watched these young players come into the team and grow week on week.

“We’re constantly asking questions of ourselves, that’s the only way you improve.

“That one was for our supporters.”

Saints coach Nathan Brown is now set to return to Australia. Clearly emotional after the game, his eyes were filling with tears as he waved in celebration and farewell to his club’s supporters.

“It’s a great occasion,” said Brown.

“I’m just happy for all the fans and the players.

“My wife’s made a lot of sacrifices, so, for the wife and kids to see is a fitting way to go home.”