Take a look back at the highlights - and some of the lowlights - of the 2012 rugby league season.
Play-off specialists Leeds Rhinos did the 'impossible' once again, winning the title from fifth. Warrington continue to dominate the Challenge Cup, winning at Wembley for the third time in four years, while Bradford went to the brink and survived - just. We take a look back at the highlights - and some of the lowlights - of the 2012 season
January
In his New Year message the Prime Minister stated: "This year we really go for it" and the same could be said for the newly named 'Stobart Super League.' 100 specially made trucks drove the popularity of Super League up and down the motorways, exposing the game to more people than ever. There were plenty of notable signings too. World Cup winner Lance Hohaia signed for St.Helens and Leon Pryce moved from Saints to Catalans Dragons. The scene was set for a thoroughly enjoyable and notable 2012 season.
February
David Haye and Dereck Chisora made the headlines in early February when they clashed at a press-conference and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats produced a crushing blow at Widnes' Stobart Stadium, when they beat the Vikings 32-14 on the opening day. Their win over the Vikings was the first of many in what would become a very enjoyable season for the Wildcats, culminating in a place in the play-offs.
The Rhinos became the World Club Champions in February with an impressive 26-12 victory over Australian Champions Manly Sea Eagles. The game-changer was the 90 metre charge from England winger Ryan Hall just before half-time.
On the February 24 we also witnessed what was to be crowned the 'Try of the Season' in Catalan's last gasp win over St.Helens at Langtree Park. Scott Dureau's last-second touchline kick ensured the win for the French club after Daryl Millard's "wonder try."
March
Steve McNamara named his first squad of 2012 at the beginning of March with a few surprises taking the headlines. Torquay-born Catalan hooker, Ian Henderson earned his first cap for England and Gareth Hock made a return after nearly 3 years away from the International game.
In Super League, Huddersfield maintained their good start to the campaign with wins over St.Helens, Castleford and Leeds. The shock of the month, and possibly the season came in Round 6 as bottom club Widnes edged out top-of-the-table Wigan in a nail-biter on the revolutionary i-pitch. It wasn't long before the Vikings came crashing down to earth, however, when they were beaten 76-6 in the South of France.
March will also be remembered for the return to Super League of Gareth Ellis. After much speculation and interest, it was announced that the England maestro would be joining the Black and Whites of Hull FC at the start of the 2013 season.
April
One story stole the headlines in April, which was, unfortunately, the decline of the Bradford Bulls. It was announced that they needed to raise £1 million in a matter of weeks to avoid going into administration. The Rugby League family came together and a number of players sold off old merchandise to help the West-Yorkshire club. Either someone hadn't told the players of the problems or they used it as motivation as they only lost once in April, while also beating Champions Leeds in what was being touted as the last-ever game at Odsal.
Wigan and Warrington continued to lead the way in the league table with the Warriors beating Saints 28-10 in Round 10. Huddersfield had another good month; however this would be the start of dark days
