Super League: Warrington Wolves see off Leeds Rhinos
Warrington Wolves continued their fine run with a commanding 24-6 win over Leeds Rhinos to knock them off top spot.
Last Updated: 31/05/14 12:14am
After three comprehensive wins on the bounce, Warrington maintained their fine form as they completely outplayed the Rhinos, who could not contain the home side's speed around the ruck.
After an even opening Warrington took control of the contest courtesy of Bridge's brace and a Chris Hill try, with only Kylie Leuluai's first try of the season on his 200th Super League appearance to show for Leeds.
Joel Monaghan had the last word as the Wolves made it five home wins in a row and knocked the Rhinos off top spot.
The Wolves almost took the lead as early as the second minute but Stefan Ratchford could not finish off an enterprising last-tackle play.
It was Leeds' turn to spurn a good opportunity next, Ablett spilling the ball as he reached for the line after receiving a short pass from Chris Clarkson.
Warrington edged ahead on 18 minutes when Michael Monaghan's inside ball found Bridge, who dummied Hardaker on his way to the line before converting his own try.
Hill try
Wire were celebrating again 10 minutes from the break after Hill slid between the posts following a break by Richie Myler.
Bridge added the extras to pass 1,000 career points and brought up another milestone before half-time as he took a pass from Myler and got on the outside of his man to go over for his 100th Warrington try.
The hosts thought they had a fourth in the final minute of the half but were denied by a brilliant last-ditch tackle by Ablett on Joel Monaghan.
Hardaker dragged a flying Rhys Evans into touch just short of the try line as Warrington threatened to pull away further at the start of the second period.
The Wolves continued to cut Leeds open and had a try ruled out at the end of another sparkling move for a knock-on by Ben Evans.
Bridge knocked over a penalty to put Warrington 20-0 to the good before the Rhinos gave themselves hope on 60 minutes through Leuluai after good work by fellow prop Peacock as the visitors kept the ball alive.
That was as good as it got for Leeds, though, and Joel Monaghan added gloss to the result with a try in the corner after receiving a cut-out ball from Micky Higham.