Leeds Rhinos have secured their place in the final of the Women’s Challenge Cup for the third consecutive year. This follows their dominant second-half performance against Wigan Warriors at the Totally Wicked Stadium. In a showdown that saw Ruby Enright score a try in each half, Leeds emerged victorious over the young Wigan side.
Both teams displayed their prowess in the opening period, with Wigan’s Vicky Molyneux and Grace Banks contributing tries to see the scores level at halftime. However, Leeds solidified their position in the second half and secured a 34-20 victory, earning them a place in the final against arch-rivals St Helens at Wembley on 8th June.
With previous victories in the Challenge Cup in 2018 and 2019, as well as their first-ever Wembley final appearance, Leeds demonstrated their experienced approach to the game. On the other hand, Wigan was aiming for their first-ever final but ultimately faced defeat.
Leeds saw an early try from Enright, followed by a leveling score from Molyneux and a subsequent lead by Wigan’s Emma Knowles. However, Leeds fought back with tries from Caitlin Beevers and Zoe Hornby. The second half witnessed a resurgence from Leeds, with Hanna Butcher, Lucy Murray, and Keara Bennett joining Enright on the scoresheet, ultimately sealing the win for the team.
Following the match, Leeds full-back, Ruby Enright, who was named player of the match, remarked, “We were hurt last year [against St Helens]. Hopefully we can go back and get the win this time.”
With a third consecutive final secured, Leeds Rhinos will be aiming to claim victory over St Helens, marking an intense and exciting clash between two formidable teams in women’s rugby league.
The match, officiated by referee Adam Williams, highlighted the growing talent and skill in women’s rugby league, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated final.