Sunday evening’s game was played exactly 30 years after the competition’s first fixture, when Paris St Germain defeated Sheffield Eagles in the French capital on March 29, 1996. Leeds’ debut game was against Warrington on home turf two days later and ended in a 22-18 loss. Much has changed since then, on and off the field, but the passion of Leeds’ fans remains as strong as ever. Ace snapper Steve Riding was at the match in 1996 and the one three decades later. Here’s 21 of his pictures as fans braved wet, cold and windy conditions to see Rhinos bounce back to form with a 26-22 win.
1. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Jack Johnson, 11, of Leeds with a giant Ryan Hall head. Photo: Steve Riding
2. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
The Waltons, of Cleckheaton, seen before Sunday's game. Photo: Steve Riding
3. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Fans outside AMT Headingley's South Stand before Sunday's game. Photo: Steve Riding
4. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Dan Hough, Adam Johnson, Cheryl Rhodes and Freddie Jordan Rhodes in the South Stand concourse. Photo: Steve Riding
5. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Leeds Rhinos supporters in the South Stand at AMT Headingley. Photo: Steve Riding
6. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Yarnbury rugby union under-10s played on the Headingley pitch at half-time of the Super League game. Photo: Steve Riding