Leeds Rhinos defeated St Helens 34-6, securing a top-two finish in the Super League and earning a bye through the opening week of the playoffs. This victory positions the Rhinos as favourites to end the regular season on top.
Conversely, St Helens' 60-year record of making the end-of-season playoffs has come to an end. Despite recent wins, their defeat against Leeds means they will likely be preparing for the 2027 season.
Leeds will now play Wigan next Saturday in a match that is effectively a decider for the top spot. St Helens, with two rounds remaining, face the improbable task of winning both their final games convincingly to have any chance of making the playoffs.