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.

13. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Fans in the South Stand Photo: steve riding

14. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Fans in the South Stand . Photo: Steve Riding

15. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Three-year-old Rhinos fan Elliot Gott. Photo: Steve Riding

16. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Claire Flintoff, of Wakefield, with her favourite player Maiko Sivo. Photo: Steve Riding

17. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Fans in the South Stand. Photo: Steve Riding

18. Leeds Rhinos v Warrington Wolves: fan pictures
Fans in the South Stand Photo: Steve Riding

