On October 16, 2004, Leeds ended a 32-year wait to be crowned champions when they defeated arch-rivals Bradford Bulls 16-8 at Old Trafford. The triumph capped a remarkable first season under coach Tony Smith. Though they suffered an early Challenge Cup defeat, Leeds were beaten only twice in the regular league season and finished nine points clear of second-placed Bulls on the table. Danny McGuire emerged as the most exciting young player in the competition and he and teammates Keith Senior, Marcus Bai, Matt Diskin and mid-season signing Ali Lauitiiti were all named in the Super League Dream Team. Two of those were Leeds’ heroes at Old Trafford.
Hooker Diskin scored Leeds’ opening try en-route to being named man of the match and McGuire sealed the win with a glorious late touchdown to spark incredible scenes of jubilation on and off the pitch. The following day, a huge crowd packed Leeds’ Millennium Square for the new champions’ homecoming. Yorkshire Evening Post photographer Steve Riding was there on both occasions and captured these superb images of an incredible two days in the club’s history.
19. Rhinos fans celebrate
Fans had waited a long time to see Leeds Rhinos crowned champions. Photo: Steve Riding
21. In the changing rooms
Rhinos' try scorers Matt Diskin and Danny McGuire. Photo: steve riding
22. Grand Final heroes
Man of the match Matt Diskin, winning try scorer Danny McGuire and captain Kevin Sinfield with the Super eague trophy at a civic reception in Millennium Stadium the day after the Grand Final. Photo: Steve Riding
23. Civic reception
Rhinos players were in surprisingly good voice at a Millennium Square reception the day aftrer the Grand final. Photo: steve riding
24. Fond farewell
Departing players Matt Adamson and Dave Furner say their farewells to the Rhinos fans in Millennium Square the day after the Grand Final. Photo: Steve Riding