Twenty five years ago, on May 1, 1999, an estimated 30,000 Leeds fans flocked to the capital hoping to see their side lift the famous trophy for the first time since 1978. It turned into one of the club’s greatest days out as Rhinos, coached by Graham Murray, ran up a record score in a 52-16 win and winger Leroy Rivett scored an unprecedented four tries.
Leeds didn’t have it all their own way, going 10-0 down after 11 minutes. They hit back to lead 12-10 at half-time, but London went back in front soon after the break. It was anyone’s game at that stage, but a storming try by Barrie McDermott swung the final Rhinos’ way and they went on to finish with nine tries – then the most scored by a team in a Cup final.
It was a day Leeds’ long-suffering fans will never forget as the club celebrated its first major trophy for 11 years. Here’s 23 superb pictures from that iconic afternoon.
7. Wembley 1999
Leeds Rhinos chairman Paul Caddick, right, alongside Richard Branson who was Broncos' owner at the time. Photo: Mike Cowling
8. Wembley 1999
Rhinos' New Zealand centre Richie Blackmore is stopped by the Broncos defence. Photo: Mike Cowling
9. Wembley 1999
Young Rhinos fans outside Wembley stadium before the game. Photo: Charles Knight
10. Wembley 1999 Bruce Rollinson
Adrian Morley was an unstoppable force for Rhinos in the Wembley demolition of London. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
11. Wembley 1999
Rhinos players celebrate one of Leroy Rivett's then-record four tries in the win over London Broncos. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
12. Wembley 1999
Barrie McDermott began Rhinos' Challenge Cup campaign by being sent-off in the opening win over Wigan Warriors. He ended it as a Wembley hero, scoring the try which broke London's spirit in the second half. Photo: David Jones/PA