Leigh Leopards are on the brink of their maiden appearance in the Super League Grand Final after a remarkable victory over the Salford Red Devils, securing their place in next weekend’s semi-finals. The Red Devils, who had only been defeated at home by the reigning champions, Wigan Warriors, all season, faced a club-record crowd for this year’s playoff opener. However, it was the Leopards who triumphed, thanks to a stellar second-half performance.
Leigh’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary; they were languishing in ninth place as recently as July. But their 11th win in 13 games now puts them one victory away from Old Trafford. Their next challenge will be either Wigan Warriors or Hull KR, with the identity of their opponents to be decided by the other eliminator match between Warrington and St Helens on Saturday.
The intensity was palpable from the outset, with both teams displaying exceptional defensive skills in the first 20 minutes. Notable moments included a powerful tackle by Leigh’s Edwin Ipape that dislodged the ball from Joe Mellor’s grasp, giving the Leopards a chance. However, they failed to capitalize on their early advantage, making key errors in prime attacking positions.
As the game progressed, Salford began to find their rhythm, led by scrum-half Marc Sneyd. Sneyd’s precise kick caused chaos in the Leigh defence, and although Jayden Nikorima’s try was disallowed, a foul in the build-up allowed Sneyd to open the scoring with a penalty. This 2-0 lead felt like a significant shift in momentum for Salford.
With half-time approaching, the Red Devils asserted their dominance, forcing Darnell McIntosh back over his own line to create a strong attacking position. Leigh almost scored in the dying seconds of the half, but Salford managed to clear their lines, leaving only Sneyd’s penalty separating the sides at the break.
Leigh returned to the field with renewed vigor, and while they initially struggled to break through, an error by Nene Macdonald near his own line proved crucial. The Leopards then executed a smooth attacking play, with Matt Moylan and Ricky Leutele combining to send Josh Charnley over for his 248th Super League try, placing him second on the all-time list. Although Moylan’s conversion missed, Leigh took their first lead of the night.
They further extended their lead with a stunning move an hour into the game. Ipape’s deep break and an audacious pass found Gareth O’Brien, who scored under the posts, giving Moylan an easy chance to make it 10-2. For the first time, a significant gap appeared between the teams.
A lengthy stoppage followed as Charnley was treated after a collision with Ryan Brierley, but Leigh’s momentum was unstoppable. Within a minute of play resuming, Ipape scored again, this time from close range. Although Moylan’s conversion missed, the lead was substantial.
Salford mounted a late comeback attempt, with Ethan Ryan scoring in the corner, but Sneyd’s missed goal left the gap at eight points with just two minutes remaining. Leigh held on for a historic victory.
