Fitting finale for Smith

Saturday 10th October 2009

Lee Smith ended his rugby league career in a blaze of glory with two tries as Leeds registered a third successive engage Super League title.

The Rhinos beat St Helens 18-10 at Old Trafford in Saturday night's Grand Final, leaving centre Smith to reflect on a perfect send-off as he heads for rugby union with Wasps.

"It is unreal. It's my last game, and I didn't want it to end in anything other than this," Smith told Sky Sports 1.

His second try eight minutes from time gave Leeds the breathing space they needed, but he added: "I'll settle for a win - it doesn't matter who scores the tries.

"This is a great set of lads - I've met some 'awesome' people at this club.

"I've made my decision. It's something I had to do. I couldn't have wished for a better time at Leeds."

Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield's voice was cracking as he came to terms with the Rhinos' unprecedented hat-trick of titles.

"What a game. I'm a bit emotional now," he admitted.

"They are a champion side. There are a lot of leaders in it when the chips are down - and they're a pleasure to play with."