Held on Saturday 19 October 2002 at Old Trafford, Manchester, the game was played between St. Helens and Bradford Bulls.

St Helens, by finishing top of the table automatically qualified for the play-off semi-final where they were drawn at home to Bradford.

A surprising loss saw Saints have to go the long route to the grand final by playing bitter rivals Wigan Warriors in the elimination semi-final; a match they won 24–8 to set up another game against Bradford.

Bradford as the team finishing second in the season also qualified for the play-off semi-final where they had to travel to St Helens.

A close fought game saw Bradford win 28–26 to go straight through to the grand final.