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Rugby League

Saints retain crown

07/09/2007

St Helens retained the Super League leaders' shield after a 36-16 win over Warrington at Knowsley Road.

Francis Meli scored a hat-trick of tries while Lee Gilmour, Ade Gardner, James Roby, Leon Pryce also crossed the line. Paul Wellens kicked four goals for the reigning champions.

Warrington, who trailed 18-10 at the break, scored two tries through Kevin Penny and Martin Gleeson while Lee Briers kicked four goals.

The result means the Saints move three points ahead of second-placed Leeds while Warrington remain in sixth spot.

Elsewhere, Leeds were beaten 17-6 by Hull at the Headingley Carnegie Stadium.

In a low-scoring game, Leeds scored just one try through Carl Ablett while Kevin Sinfield kicked a penalty.

Hull, who led 10-6 at the break, clinched victory thanks to a try from hooker Wayne Godwin and a brace from winger Gareth Raynor.

Australia scrum-half Matthew Head kicked a drop goal while Danny Tickle kicked two penalties for the visitors.

While Leeds stay in second, the win cements Hull's fourth place with one game left before the playoffs.