No Team Has Ever Scored More in a Challenge Cup Final Than Leeds Rhinos in 1999
On May 1, 1999, the Leeds Rhinos made history by thrashing the London Broncos 52-16 in the Challenge Cup final at the ‘old Wembley’. In front of 73,242 spectators, the Rhinos claimed their first piece of silverware in a decade and lifted the prestigious trophy for the first time in over 20 years.
The 36-point winning margin remained the biggest in a Challenge Cup final until 2015, when Leeds themselves beat Hull KR 50-0 at the ‘new Wembley’. Greg Fleming, Martin Offiah, and Robbie Simpson scored tries for the Broncos, with Rob Smyth converting twice, but Leeds were dominant, scoring nine tries of their own.
Iestyn Harris led the way for the victors, contributing 20 of Leeds’ 52 points with a try and eight conversions. Man of the match Leroy Rivett also impressed, scoring four tries. The Rhinos’ 1999 Challenge Cup-winning squad has gone on to various pursuits since that memorable day, with several transitioning into coaching or other careers.
As the two sides meet again this weekend, we take a look at where the Leeds players from their 2017 semi-final clash are now. From Daryl Powell’s remarkable coaching journey to the tragic story of Terry Newton, the ’99 Challenge Cup triumph remains a significant moment in the Rhinos’ history.
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