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.
19. 1999 Wembley cele after Rivett try (Bruce).jpg
Rhinos players celebrate one of Leroy Rivett's four tries. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
20. 1999 Wembley fans (Bruce).jpg
Leeds Rhinos fans enjoyed their day out at Wembley. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
21. 1999 Wembley Leroy Rivett Iestyn Harris (YPN).jpg
Man of the match Leroy Rivett, left and Leeds Rhinos captain Iestyn Harris with the Challenge Cup. Photo: YPN
22. Wembley 1999
Leeds Rhinos scrum-half Ryan Sheridan had an outstanding game and would have been Wembley man of the match but for Leroy Rivett's four tries. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
23. Wembley 1999
Francis Cummins touches down for Leeds Rhinos in their Cup final win against London Broncos. Photo: Bruce Rollinson