York Knights capped off their debut Super League season with a commanding 35-16 win over the league's bottom‑placed side, Bradford Bulls, at the LNER Community Stadium. The match, which also marked the farewell appearance of veteran prop Paul Vaughan before his retirement, featured a late drop goal from Vaughan that sparked jubilant celebrations among his teammates. From the outset, the Knights were intent on securing a solid 10th‑place finish, and the early minutes set a physical tone. Just 13 minutes in, York’s Scott Galeano was sent to the sin bin after a dangerous tip‑tackle on Bradford’s Phoenix Steinwede.
The Bulls responded quickly, but a promising try by full‑back Caleb Aekins was disallowed when officials ruled that a forward had off‑loaded the ball illegally. Bradford drew first blood at the 17‑minute mark when Ryan Sutton broke through the defense to score a try, with Chris Atkin adding the conversion.
The lead was short‑lived, however, as Galeano, returning from his temporary dismissal, showcased his agility and sprinted over for a York try, equalising the score. The home side then enjoyed a moment of tribute as Ben Jones‑Bishop, who was being honoured for his upcoming 400th career appearance, crossed the line for his second try of the night.
Cody Hunter’s successful conversion pushed York ahead to 12-6. Bradford fought back again when Riley Dean capitalised on a spilled kick, sprinting to the try‑line for a score that narrowed the gap. Yet York answered before the break when Toa Mata'afa powered through the centre of the field, diving over to give the Knights an 18-12 lead at halftime.
The second half began with a setback for Bradford when prop Ebon Scurr had his early try overturned for an obstruction. York seized the opportunity shortly thereafter; at the 51‑minute mark, Jesse Dee collected a low, perfectly timed kick from Paul McShane and grounded the ball for a try that extended the lead.
Bradford’s woes continued when another high ball was mishandled, allowing Xavier Va'a to slide in for a try. Shortly after, David Nofoaluma took advantage of a handling error and added yet another York try in the 67th minute, further widening the margin. In the closing stages, Bradford managed a consolation try when Jayden Okunbor grounded a late pass, bringing the score to 35-16. The final flourish came from Australian prop Paul Vaughan, who, at 35 years old, slotted a drop goal that was met with raucous applause from the York supporters, cementing the night’s celebratory atmosphere.
Beyond the match report, the Super League schedule for the upcoming weeks features several high‑profile fixtures. On the same evening, Leeds Rhinos will host Hull FC with coverage on Sky Sports Mix, while Leigh Leopards face Wakefield Trinity on Sky Sports+. Warrington Wolves take on Toulouse Olympique, and St Helens meet Hull KR, both also on Sky Sports+.
Later, Wigan Warriors clash with Catalans Dragons on Sky Sports Main Event, with pre‑game build‑up starting at 7 p.m. The postseason calendar continues with the first eliminator on Saturday, September 12, where the loser will be knocked out of the competition, followed by a second eliminator on September 19. The semi‑finals are slated for September 26, determining the two teams that will advance to the Betfred Super League Grand Final, scheduled for 6 p.m.
on Sky Sports. York’s victory not only secured a respectable league position but also provided a fitting send‑off for Vaughan, whose drop goal epitomised his long‑standing contribution to the club. The Knights will look to build on this foundation as they prepare for the next season, while Bradford will aim to regroup and address the defensive lapses that cost them dearly in this encounter.
Overall, the match showcased the physical intensity, strategic kicking, and individual brilliance that define Super League rugby, offering fans a memorable conclusion to York’s inaugural campaign and setting the stage for an exciting playoff series ahead.