Momentum heading into a Super League playoff campaign is certainly not the be all and end all: but the reactions of both these sides at the finish of a thrilling night in Leigh underlined how crucial it could be, as well as the different trajectories the Leopards and St Helens are on as the business end of the year begins.
This was a night of huge significance for both. Leigh, who were ninth as recently as July, knew only victory here would ensure they guaranteed a spot in the playoffs. In the end, a 10th win from 12 games cemented fifth and a trip to Salford in the opening round next week.
