St Helens stayed level with Leeds atop Super League after a gritty 40‑10 win over York at the Totally Wicked Stadium. Paul Rowley praised York’s resilience but insisted the margin didn’t reflect the intensity, noting his side dominated possession and territory. Forward Sailor capped the performance with a second‑half try that pushed the score beyond the early lead.

York coach Mark Applegarth admitted a slow start, citing unforced errors and discipline lapses that left them with just four quality sets before halftime, trailing 16‑10. He lauded his players’ character for staying in the contest, but the Saints’ relentless pressure in the second half extinguished any comeback hopes as they added another 24 points.

The victory keeps St Helens on equal footing with Leeds, preserving the top‑two race as both clubs eye the playoff positions. Referee Liam Rush kept a tight grip on the game, while interchanges saw Welsby and Delaney replace tired forwards for the Saints. York’s effort, though outmatched, earned them respect for battling back into the final ten minutes.

Looking ahead, Leeds will host Castleford next weekend, while St Helens travel to Warrington, setting up a potential six‑point swing that could separate the leaders. York, sitting near the bottom, must tighten discipline if they hope to avoid relegation threats. Rowley’s emphasis on possession and territory suggests the Saints will continue to press for the title.