Salford Red Devils missed out on Betfred Super League glory as they suffered a 23-6 defeat at the expense of St. Helens at Old Trafford.
Ian Watson’s side were out-classed by a clinical St. Helens outfit who clinched their sixth Grand Final victory and their first since 2014.
Tries from Morgan Knowles, Zeb Taia and Mark Percival set up the victory in front of 64,102 fans at the home of Manchester United.
St. Helens started the brighter of the two sides and dominated the opening quarter of an hour. However, the Salford defence remained resolute and kept their opponents at bay.
Knowles opened the scoring for Justin Holbrook’s side, darting over from close range to give his side the lead.
The Saints had their second score nine minutes later when Taia went over nine minutes later off the back of a scrum.
Despite being two tries down, Salford kept fighting and they thought they had their opening try through Tui Lolohea only for it to be disallowed due to obstruction.
It only took the Red Devils three minutes to open their account through Jake Bibby in the corner.
Salford began the second half with a six point deficit and it only took St. Helens 10 minutes to add their third try of the night through centre, Percival.
Lachlan Coote added two penalties and a drop goal from Thomas Makinson rounded off the victory for Merseyside outfit.
The victory means that Head Coach Holbrook finishes his tenure at St. Helens with a trophy.
Next up for St. Helens is their World Club Challenge encounter against the Sydney Roosters in the New Year.
Picture credit: PA Images
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