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MANCHESTER - Former Kiwis coach Brian McClennan apparently pulled off another motivational masterstroke to steer Leeds Rhinos to the British Super League title this morning (NZT).
St Helens had won the Challenge Cup and the League Leaders Shield this year and then battered Leeds 38-10 two weeks ago to book their place in the grand final.
But the Rhinos bounced back to win the Old Trafford showpiece 24-16 and secure their first-ever back-to-back championships.
That capped a fine first year in charge for McClennan after Leeds beat Melbourne Storm to win the World Club Challenge in February.
McLennan used innovative motivational techniques to guide the Kiwis to Tri-Nations glory against Australia in 2005 and Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield said the coach had worked his magic again.
"Bluey (McLennan) needs to take a lot of credit because two weeks ago there were some lads with their heads on the floor," he said.
"We were completely shot, we were really disappointed with what happened there.
"I know that's what the coach is paid to do but he's done a great job in turning it around and keeping a very special trophy at Headingley."
Leeds' success was all the more remarkable given they were without Kiwis fullback Brent Webb because of a back injury that makes him doubtful for the upcoming World Cup.
McClennan was eager to share the credit with his players, who he feels will make England a good bet for the World Cup.
"You can only turn it around if you've some mental toughness there in the first place and these players have it," McLennan said.
"There was a period in the second half where we had to defend and defend and they just kept lining up.
"We're very proud because St Helens are such a special club, their form at the back end of the season was outstanding, so we knew we had to roll our sleeves up.
"We're overwhelmed with joy because it was a huge challenge we faced, but we all banded together and we did it."
- NZPA