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Rugby League

Smith delighted with final place

06/10/2007

Leeds Rhinos coach Tony Smith revealed his delight at securing a chance to leave the club on a high after they beat Wigan Warriors to claim a place in the Super League grand final.

Smith's side beat the Warriors 36-6 and the Great Britain coach is keen to add to the trophy he won with the Rhinos in 2004.

He said: "It's beyond my wildest dreams to participate in three of the last four grand finals and to win a second would be terrific."

Leeds scored five tries and conceded only one as they ran away with the game in the second half.

"I felt my boys were ready for this and they did a great job - I really can't fault them," said Smith.

"I thought the whole performance was very comprehensive. To only concede one try against a very dangerous team was enormous."

Wigan had qualified in the final playoff position and were one win away from the grand final, a feat never achieved before.

Head coach Brian Noble was pleased with his team's efforts but admitted Leeds had been better on the day.

He said: "At 16-6 I thought we could get back into it but we didn't quite kick well enough. It doesn't make me any less proud for what we nearly achieved."

Leeds will now face St Helens in the grand final and Smith is eager to avenge their 10-8 defeat in last week's final eliminator, adding: "It's a big task for us but we are going to be up for it."